Geneticists from the National Human Genome Research Institute in the USA have identified a set of microRNAs in
In previous studies, researchers usingAnimal models have shown that microRNA molecules affect the functioning of pancreatic islets and the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The new work is the largest genetic analysis of miRNA expression in human pancreatic islets.
Researchers discover genomic variantsmiRNA in a region that is associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A total of 14 types of molecules associated with this disease have been identified. In addition, the scientists identified the genetic effects that drive miRNA expression in pancreatic islets.
MicroRNAs are small single-strandednon-coding RNA molecules that help regulate the type and amount of protein produced by cells. They control gene expression by binding to messenger or messenger RNA (mRNA) or by marking mRNA for destruction or subsequent translation.
Diabetes is a chronic metabolica disease characterized by high levels of glucose in the blood, which can lead to organ damage in the long term. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the pancreas either does not produce enough insulin or a person develops insulin resistance.
Islets of the pancreas, or isletsLangerhans, are areas of the pancreas containing cells that produce hormones. Of the five types of islet cells present in the pancreas, most are beta cells. These cells are responsible for the production of insulin.
As the authors of the study note, future work will help obtain accurate miRNA biomarkers for the early detection and treatment of diabetes.
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