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Key Points

Scientists from the University of Exeter and Université Libre de Bruxelles have discovered a groundbreaking new type of diabetes in babies under six months old. Their research identified a specific genetic mutation in the TMEM167A gene that disrupts insulin production in infants. Using advanced stem cell and gene-editing techniques, researchers demonstrated how this mutation leads to the death of insulin-producing cells. The study offers crucial insights into diabetes mechanisms and could potentially help develop new treatment approaches for this global health challenge.

Key Points: Scientists Reveal Rare Genetic Diabetes in Infant DNA

  • Genetic mutation discovered in TMEM167A gene causes rare infant diabetes
  • Study reveals how gene mutation disrupts insulin-producing cells
  • Six children with neurological disorders identified in breakthrough research
  • Advanced stem cell techniques used to understand insulin production mechanisms
2 min read

Scientists find new type of diabetes in babies under 6 months

International research uncovers new diabetes type in babies under 6 months, linked to TMEM167A gene mutation affecting insulin production.

"Finding the DNA changes that cause diabetes in babies gives us a unique way to find the genes that play key roles in making and secreting insulin. - Dr. Elisa de Franco, University of Exeter"

New Delhi, Oct 9

An international team of scientists has discovered a new type of diabetes in babies, under six months of age.

Some babies develop diabetes before the age of six months. In over 85 per cent of cases, this is due to a genetic mutation in their DNA.

Using advanced DNA sequencing technologies and a new model of stem cell research the team from the University of Exeter in the UK and Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) identified mutations in the TMEM167A gene -- responsible for a rare form of neonatal diabetes.

They found that in six children with additional neurological disorders such as epilepsy and microcephaly there was alterations in the TMEM167A gene.

"Finding the DNA changes that cause diabetes in babies gives us a unique way to find the genes that play key roles in making and secreting insulin. In this collaborative study, the finding of specific DNA changes causing this rare type of diabetes in six children, led us to clarifying the function of a little-known gene, TMEM167A, showing how it plays a key role in insulin secretion," said Dr. Elisa de Franco, at the University of Exeter.

To understand its role, the team used stem cells differentiated into pancreatic beta cells and gene-editing techniques (CRISPR). They found that when the TMEM167A gene is altered, insulin-producing cells can no longer fulfill their role. They then activate stress mechanisms that lead to their death.

"The ability to generate insulin-producing cells from stem cells has enabled us to study what is dysfunctional in the beta cells of patients with rare forms as well as other types of diabetes. This is an extraordinary model for studying disease mechanisms and testing treatments," said Professor Miriam Cnop, researcher at ULB.

The discovery, published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, shows that the TMEM167A gene is essential for the proper functioning of insulin-producing beta cells, but also for neurons, whereas it seems dispensable for other cell types. These results contribute to a better understanding of the crucial steps involved in insulin production and could shed light on research into other forms of diabetes, a disease which today affects almost 589 million people worldwide.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
This is groundbreaking research! But I wonder how accessible genetic testing will be for Indian families. Many rural areas don't even have basic healthcare facilities. The government should make this available to all.
D
David E
Incredible work by the international team! The stem cell research approach is fascinating. This could revolutionize how we understand and treat diabetes across all age groups.
A
Ananya R
My cousin's baby was diagnosed with diabetes at 4 months. The family struggled for months before getting proper diagnosis. Research like this is desperately needed in India where awareness about neonatal diabetes is very low.
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Sarah B
The connection between diabetes and neurological disorders is really interesting. Hope this leads to better screening protocols for newborns in Indian hospitals. Early detection could save so many lives! 💙
V
Vikram M
While this research is impressive, I'm concerned about the cost implications. Will treatments developed from this research be affordable for average Indian families? Research should focus on cost-effective solutions too.

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