Scientists Discover Gene That Confers Sizable Risk of
Diabetes
This gene has been found in Icelanders, and now also in Danish and
Americans.
However, this gene also controls other genes, meaning that it can
be used to develop new drugs.
The gene, designated TCF7L2, is one that controls the activity
of other genes. Its role may include setting the level of a hormone
that acts along with insulin to control blood sugar levels.
Discovery of the TCF7L2 gene could be therapeutically helpful, Dr.
Stefansson said, because it identified a major biochemical pathway
through which the disease developed. Any of the genes and proteins
that govern the pathway is a potential target for new drugs.
