Genetic architecture of type 2 diabetes and its shared genetic component with low birth weight in African Americans

Abstract

Purpose of review Recent large-scale multiancestry efforts has contributed to our knowledge of the hereditary basis of type 2 diabetes (T2D). The present review will summarize findings of the genetic basis of T2D in African Americans, a population group with a disproportionate burden of this disease. Recent findings To date, >400 risk genetic variants have been found to be associated with the risk of T2D across populations of different ancestries. Although these findings are based on primarily European-ancestry populations, most of the identified loci show similar associations in African Americans. Ancestry-specific analyses including genome-wide associations studies (GWAS) in African Americans, Africans; as well as admixture mapping scans in African Americans have identified additional risk variants and genomic loci associate with the risk of T2D. These efforts have also uncovered new genetic links between low birth weight and T2D. In particular, admixture mapping approaches have identified a shared genetic ancestry component of both phenotypic traits in African Americans. Summary Recent findings have helped us to better understand the genetic basis of T2D in African Americans. Of particular interest are new genetic discoveries linking low birth weight and T2D, two conditions with a much higher prevalence in African Americans compared to U.S. whites. Continuing work, including large-scale sequencing efforts would add to our knowledge of the genetic architecture of T2D in African Americans, as well as genetic links with other conditions.

Association between RAC1 gene variation, redox homeostasis and type 2 diabetes mellitus

“…2 As a classic multifactorial disease, T2D is determined by tight interactions between environmental factors and multiple polymorphic genes that have been identified by numerous genetic association studies. [3][4][5][6] Furthermore, the impact of diet, exercise and unhealthy habits on the risk and progression of T2D has been intensively investigated by numerous studies. [7][8][9][10][11][12][13] However, exact molecular mechanisms responsible for the initiation and progression of type 2 diabetes remain elusive.…”