Genetics of MODY - Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young - Part II

Abstract
MODY - maturity onset diabetes of the young - is a hereditary form of non-insulin dependent diabetes. It is transmitted in an autosomal dominant fashion. Based on the causative genetic defect, several types of MODY have been identified. Only recently, public and medical community became more aware of MODY.

In the past, MODY was often misdiagnosed as type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Patients with MODY typically are not obese and are often asymptomatic despite persistent hyperglycemia. Diagnosis of MODY is often based on clinical symptoms and family history of diabetes. Genetic testing is now recommended for the patients with family history of MODY. Other disorders, typically associated with diabetes, may or may not be present in these patients. Treatment of MODY typically involves management of hyperglycemia. Recent advances in gene therapy offer hope that in the near future, all types of diabetes, including MODY may be cured. Interestingly, high prevalence of diabetes worldwide prompted some hypotheses about selective advantage of this disease.

Read full article for:

• Diagnostic criteria for MODY
• Genetic testing for MODY: benefits and limitations
• Pathologies associated with different subtypes of MODY
• Hypothesis of selective advantage of diabetes
• Gene therapy and new genetic treatments for diabetes

This review article analyzes numerous studies that investigated genetics and inheritance of MODY and related disorders, mostly between 2000 and 2007.

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