Newly discovered genes linked with type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes has been linked to obesity, diet, lack of exercise and lifestyle, but a new study of the disease has shown that beneath it all, some may be more susceptible to developing the disease than others.
The study, led by Oxford’s Professor Mark McCarthy, included experts from the USA, Canada, Europe and the UK, and is the largest study to date on the relationship between genetics and diabetes. Researchers focused on the differences in DNA from diabetics and nondiabetics, leading to the discovery of 12 new genes linked to type 2 diabetes. This brought the known total of type 2 diabetes-associated genes from 26 to 38.
Type 2 diabetes, the most common form of the disease, occurs when the body produces too little insulin. Previously referred to as ‘adult-onset’ diabetes, scientists say that the term is no longer accurate, as a startling number of children are being diagnosed with the disease every day.
The study involved over 43,000 diabetics, nearly 40,000 people who did not have the disease, and approximately 60,000 controls. The researchers then proceeded to focus on the genetic variations between the group’s DNA.
“Gradually we are piecing together clues about why some people get diabetes and others don’t,’ McCarthy stated.
Researchers hope the discovery of these genes will improve their understanding of type 2 diabetes and lead to new discoveries in treatment and prevention. Identification of these genes could also eventually help identify patients who may be prone to the condition and allow for early intervention. 
That is really a great news! How much these genetic variations in total(38)controbute to the risk of developing diabetes type2? and what are these genetic variations? hopefully these new discoveries will pave the road to more effective new therapeutics that will over come the barriers seen in the already in use anti diabetic treatment!