Genetics & Molecular Medicine
Open AccessSelected Gene Variants in Type 2 Diabetes in Sri Lankan Tamils and associated Physiological and Biochemical Parameters: Focusing on Diet, Physical Activity, Body Composition and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Karthika Pathmakumar.
Abstract
T2DM is a global public health risk in diabetic populations. Previous studies suggest South Asians appear to be at particularly high risk for developing T2DM compared with Caucasian and other ethnic group. Particularly, South Asian T2DM population’s variation studies are still relatively limited. Especially, South Asians’ diet has many dietary imbalances, such as low intake of monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and fiber and high intake of saturated fats, carbohydrates and trans-fatty acids. These dietary imbalances (consumption of energy-rich foods) are associated with insulin resistance and developing T2DM. Physical activity is generally protective against T2DM. South Asian were found to be less (up to 50–75% less physical activity) physically active than Europeans and level of physical activity inversely correlated with blood glucose and insulin levels. The environmental factors and the fundamental molecular mechanisms involved in the advance of T2DM remain poorly understood in South Asians. From previous literature reviews we have learned, that the genetic variants may interact with environmental factors such as physical activity and nutrient and contribute significantly in` the development of T2DM in different ethnic populations. Therefore, more research studies needed to identify a pattern of gene-environment interactions to predict preventive strategies for T2DM.In the future, we planned to do a study on T2DM patients based on a previous study where genetic associations were found with diet and physical activity and contribution in the development of T2DM.
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