Epigenetic Alterations and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the most challenging public health issues of the 21st century. T2DM, a complex polygenic metabolic disorder, is characterized by hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia resulting from the interplay of genetic/epigenetic and environmental factors. Epigenetic alterations present in T2DM patients and not in normal healthy individuals may give an insight into how environmental factors contribute to T2DM. Epigenetic mechanisms involve DNA methylation, histone modification, and gene expression alterations via micro RNAs (miRNA). These changes lead to glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, β-cell dysfunction, and ultimately T2DM. Extensive studies based on alterations in gene expression associated with DNA methylation/histone modifications are required to elucidate the relationship between vital environmental factors and T2DM progression. Candidate genes responsible for inter-individual differences in antidiabetic responses may also undergo epigenetic alterations. Identification and characterization of such epigenetic biomarkers may help in the prediction of T2DM risk as well as response to antidiabetic treatment and form an essential part of personalized medicine

Keywords: T2DM, Epigenetic biomarkers, DNA methylation, Histone modification, Personalized medicine.