To find genes that cause/ predispose individuals to diabetes using genetic techniques and to understand the molecular basis of diabetes and its related traits in order to form a rational platform for improved diagnosis treatment of patients.

To contribute to the discovery, identification and characterization of the genes and their variability involved in monogenic and polygenic forms of Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) and their intermediary phenotypes.

Portfolio of Current Activities of the Department

The candidate gene approach is used in studying disease and intermediary traits. We have found that PPAR gamma gene 12 Ala polymorphism does not protect the   Indians from diabetes; however, we have for the first time shown that the coactivator of PPAR gamma, the PGC 1 alpha Thr 394Thr silent polymorphism to be associated with type 2 diabetes. Recently, we have replicated the rs12255372(G/T) and rs 7903146(C/T)  of the TCF7L2  gene polymorphisms association to type 2 diabetes in the South Indian population. Another interesting outcome of our work has been that we were able to show a novel association of an intronic polymorphism in the adiponectin gene to type 2 diabetes, obesity and adiponectin level. Further, we have identified a novel MODY 3 gene mutation which we have shown to co-segregate with the disease in the family and   which is not seen in normal glucose tolerant subjects. Additionally we have been able to show the Ala 98Val polymorphism of the MODY 3 gene to be associated with younger age at onset of the disease. Our work has resulted in 15 original publications in peer reviewed journals. We are currently performing replication studies on the recently identified type 2 diabetes. From SNP association the department is now focussing on genome wide scanning and large genome wide association studies for disease gene identification. In order to validate our gene association, we have established functional genomics lab where molecular characterization of novel and significant genetic determinants will be performed.

• The molecular genetics department is now working on deducing the functional significance of our novel and significant findings.
• Further focus is on finding novel genes that are responsible for causing type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity and cardiovascular diseases using high throughput technology platform such as Illumina microarray.
• To offer diagnostic molecular genetic testing in order to improve the management of monogenic forms of diabetes, which are often under-diagnosed.

• State-of-the-art facilities to carryout advanced genetic research
• On account of the department’s state-of-the-art facilities and know-how it has the ability to act as a nodal centre for training people from across the nation.
• Facilities to conduct large scale genetic studies like the genetic screening of MODY and neonatal diabetes in India. Primarily this project will help in detection of the MODY subtypes in a clinical set-up which will help in the treatment modalities for the MODY and neonatal patients. Additionally it will also help in understanding the molecular etiology of these subtypes of diabetes in India and help clinicians to offer the correct treatment to the patients.