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World J Diabetes. Apr 15, 2014; 5(2): 128-140
Published online Apr 15, 2014. doi: 10.4239/wjd.v5.i2.128
Published online Apr 15, 2014. doi: 10.4239/wjd.v5.i2.128
Recent advances in the molecular genetics of type 2 diabetes mellitus
Antonio Brunetti, Eusebio Chiefari, Daniela Foti, Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
Author contributions: Brunetti A wrote the review, edited and reviewed the final manuscript; Chiefari E and Foti D contributed to discussion and writing of the manuscript.
Correspondence to: Antonio Brunetti, MD, PhD, Professor, Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, Viale Europa, Località Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy. brunetti@unicz.it
Telephone: +39-961-3694368 Fax: +39-961-996087
Received: November 19, 2013
Revised: December 28, 2013
Accepted: January 17, 2014
Published online: April 15, 2014
Revised: December 28, 2013
Accepted: January 17, 2014
Published online: April 15, 2014
Core Tip
Core tip: Despite the progress in clinical and laboratory investigations, the fundamental cause of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains uncertain. Candidate gene, linkage and genome-wide association studies have highlighted the role of genetics in the development of T2DM. Using these strategies, a large number of variants have been identified in many genes, most of which may influence an individual’s risk of developing T2DM. In this review, we compile information on genetic factors that influence the risk of T2DM. In addition, we discuss the results from recent studies on the role of HMGA1 on the issue, which might be important for future breakthroughs in this field.