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Diabetes is a major global problem. During the past decade, the genetic basis of various monogenic forms of the disease, and their underlying molecular mechanisms, have been elucidated. Many genes that increase type 2 diabetes (T2DM) risk have also been identified, but how they do so remains enigmatic. Nevertheless, defective insulin secretion emerges as the main culprit in both monogenic and polygenic diabetes, with environmental and lifestyle factors, via obesity, accounting for the current dramatic increase in T2DM. There also have been significant advances in therapy, particularly for some monogenic disorders. We review here what ails the β cell and how its function may be restored.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/j.cell.2012.02.010

Type

Journal article

Journal

Cell

Publication Date

16/03/2012

Volume

148

Pages

1160 - 1171

Keywords

Animals, Diabetes Mellitus, Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2, Diet, Humans, Insulin-Secreting Cells