The correlation between transcription factor 7-like 2 gene polymorphisms and susceptibility of gestational diabetes mellitus in the population of central China: A case-control study

Transcription factor 7-like 2 rs77961654 polymorphism is related to stable angina and acute coronary syndrome in a Chinese population

Background: Transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2) is a key member of the T-cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor family, and it plays a pivotal role in human physiological processes and has been implicated in various pathological conditions. TCF7L2 has been associated with inflammation, metabolic regulation, and the development of atherosclerosis. Notably, TCF7L2 exerts an anti-atherosclerotic effect by activating specific molecular pathways. Furthermore, TCF7L2 polymorphisms have been associated with the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD) and related mortality. This study aimed to investigate whether the TCF7L2 gene polymorphism rs77961654 A/C influences the risk of CAD. Methods: A total of 262 patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), 313 patients with stable angina, and 488 healthy individuals were enrolled. The rs77961654 variant of TCF7L2 was genotyped. Results: The frequency of the CC genotype of TCF7L2 was higher in the stable angina and ACS groups compared to the healthy controls. After adjusting for confounding factors including age, sex, systolic blood pressure, body mass index, fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and smoking status, the CC genotype was associated with 10.46-fold and 8.00-fold higher risks of ACS and stable angina, respectively, than the AA genotype. In addition, the CC genotype was positively correlated with both stable angina and ACS, while the AA genotype was negatively correlated with ACS. Furthermore, the patients with stable angina or ACS carrying the CC genotype had significantly elevated levels of HbA1C, total white blood cell count, and lymphocyte count, and lower levels of adiponectin and secreted frizzled-related protein 5 compared to those with the AA genotype. A significant association was also identified between TCF7L2 gene polymorphisms and type 2 diabetes mellitus (p for trend < 0.039). Conclusion: Polymorphisms in the TCF7L2 gene may be associated with a higher risk of stable angina and ACS.

Genetic and epigenetic alterations associated with gestational diabetes mellitus and adverse neonatal outcomes

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a metabolic disorder, recognised during 24-28 weeks of pregnancy. GDM is linked with adverse newborn outcomes such as macrosomia, premature delivery, metabolic disorder, cardiovascular, and neurological disorders. Recent investigations have focused on the correlation of genetic factors such as β-cell function and insulin secretary genes (transcription factor 7 like 2, potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily q member 1, adiponectin etc.) on maternal metabolism during gestation leading to GDM. Epigenetic alterations like DNA methylation, histone modification, and miRNA expression can influence gene expression and play a dominant role in feto-maternal metabolic pathways. Interactions between genes and environment, resulting in differential gene expression patterns may lead to GDM. Researchers suggested that GDM women are more susceptible to insulin resistance, which alters intrauterine surroundings, resulting hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia. Epigenetic modifications in genes affecting neuroendocrine activities, and metabolism, increase the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes in offspring. There is currently no treatment or effective preventive method for GDM, since the molecular processes of insulin resistance are not well understood. The present review was undertaken to understand the pathophysiology of GDM and its effects on adverse neonatal outcomes. In addition, the study of genetic and epigenetic alterations will provide lead to researchers in the search for predictive molecular biomarkers.

Genetic and inflammatory factors underlying gestational diabetes mellitus: a review

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) poses a significant global health concern, impacting both maternal and fetal well-being. Early detection and treatment are imperative to mitigate adverse outcomes during pregnancy. This review delves into the pivotal role of insulin function and the influence of genetic variants, including SLC30A8, CDKAL1, TCF7L2, IRS1, and GCK, in GDM development. These genetic variations affect beta-cell function and insulin activity in crucial tissues, such as muscle, disrupting glucose regulation during pregnancy. We propose a hypothesis that this variation may disrupt zinc transport, consequently impairing insulin production and secretion, thereby contributing to GDM onset. Furthermore, we discussed the involvement of inflammatory pathways, such as TNF-alpha and IL-6, in predisposing individuals to GDM. Genetic modulation of these pathways may exacerbate glucose metabolism dysregulation observed in GDM patients. We also discussed how GDM affects cardiovascular disease (CVD) through a direct correlation between pregnancy and cardiometabolic function, increasing atherosclerosis, decreased vascular function, dyslipidemia, and hypertension in women with GDM history. However, further research is imperative to unravel the intricate interplay between inflammatory pathways, genetics, and GDM. This understanding is pivotal for devising targeted gene therapies and pharmacological interventions to rectify genetic variations in SLC30A8, CDKAL1, TCF7L2, IRS1, GCK, and other pertinent genes. Ultimately, this review offers insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms of GDM, providing a foundation for developing strategies to mitigate its impact.

Mechanisms and Physiological Roles of Polymorphisms in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a significant pregnancy complication linked to perinatal complications and an elevated risk of future metabolic disorders for both mothers and their children. GDM is diagnosed when women without prior diabetes develop chronic hyperglycemia due to β-cell dysfunction during gestation. Global research focuses on the association between GDM and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and aims to enhance our understanding of GDM's pathogenesis, predict its risk, and guide patient management. This review offers a summary of various SNPs linked to a heightened risk of GDM and explores their biological mechanisms within the tissues implicated in the development of the condition.