About
Aims: This project aims to improve our ability to identify individuals who are likely to suffer from type 2 diabetes (T2D) by grouping individuals based on genetic information and covariate information.
Scientific rationale: Whilst T2D is treated as a single disease based on its symptoms, the cause of the disease varies and both genes and environment play a role in disease susceptibility. To date genetic studies have identified many genetic variants associated with T2D where the majority are part of biological mechanisms involving insulin secretion. However, genetic variants in other molecular pathways may also contribute to disease susceptibility and the current project aims to improve their detection. To achieve this, we propose to put people with T2D into groups based on their genetic susceptibility to T2D. We will use genes that have so far been identified as leading to T2D susceptibility. We will then explore the genetics of the T2D groups, aiming to identify novel genetic susceptibility to T2D.
Project Duration: The project forms part of a PhD thesis and is expected to be completed within 3 years
Public Health Impact: T2D is a global concern with incidence of T2D rising dramatically and mirroring the increase in obesity. Many clinical complications arise from diabetes. The most common include cardiovascular disease, visual impairment due to diabetic retinopathy, and renal disease. T2D progresses slowly and early intervention can result in complete reversal of the disease. Robust biomarkers of disease are vital for early detection, intervention and treatment.