According to a recent report, the absence of a previously unknown gene causes a higher risk of elevated blood sugar levels, leading to impaired insulin sensitivity and causing diabetes .
The gene, known as a ‘fat-burning’ gene, was identified by the researchers. This gene is apparently required in order to maintain sensitivity to insulin. Without the enzymes this gene produces, fat burning becomes impaired and an increased risk of obesity is likely.
Professor Juleen Zierath, lead researcher, reportedly commented: "The expression of this gene is reduced when blood sugar rises, but activity can be restored if blood sugar is controlled by pharmacological treatment or exercise . Our results underscore the importance of tight regulation of blood sugar for people with diabetes ."
Absent gene makes diabetes worse
Fri, 08 Feb 2008
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