J Korean Med Assoc.  2009 Jul;52(7):688-694. 10.5124/jkma.2009.52.7.688.

Genetics of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

• Kwak SH
• Jang HC
• Park KS

• KMID: 2188029
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2009.52.7.688

Abstract

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is defined as abnormal glucose tolerance diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy. The pathogenesis of GDM is characterized by relatively reduced insulin secretion insufficient to meet the increased insulin demand, which is quite similar to that of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Thus GDM is considered to have a common genetic background as type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, only limited information is available for the genetic basis of GDM. In this review article, we will briefly discuss the definition, epidemiologic features, and pathophysiology of GDM. In addition, we will present the data of two recent genetic association studies regarding GDM. Most of the previously proven type 2 diabetes associated with single nucleotide polymorphisms were also associated with the risk of GDM. Rapidly increasing knowledge in genetics of GDM will generate new insights into the pathophysiology, treatment, and prevention of GDM.

Keyword

Gene; Genome- wide association study; Gestational diabetes mellitus; Insulin resistance; Beta cell dysfunction; Single nucleotide polymorphism

MeSH Terms

Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2
Diabetes, Gestational
Female
Genetic Association Studies
Glucose
Insulin
Insulin Resistance
Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
Pregnancy
Glucose
Insulin

Figure

• 

  Figure 1 Comparison of the minor allele frequency (A) and odds ratio (B) of SNPs associated with GDM from two recent association studies.

• 

  Figure 2 Association between type 2 dibetes genes and gestational diabetes mellitus.

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