ISSN:
1432-5233
Keywords:
Angiotensinogen gene
;
Insulin receptor gene
;
Methods of molecular genetics
;
Nephropathy in type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract Recently, evidence has accumulated that genetic factors may contribute to the development of diabetic nephropathy in patients with type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes mellitus. To identify variation at a gene locus, newly developed methods are introduced which employ denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) to study sequence differences in polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-amplified DNA fragments as well as in genomic DNA. These techniques are illustrated with studies of the angiotensinogen gene and the insulin receptor gene. In preliminary data from a comparison between individuals with and without diabetic nephropathy, we found no DNA sequence difference in the part of the angiotensinogen gene coding for angiotensin I. We did find, however, different distributions of a DNA polymorphism detected with the probe corresponding to exons 7 and 8 of the insulin receptor gene inRsaI DGGE blots in a comparison of patients with slow and fast progressing nephropathy. The interpretation of this finding and the need for further studies are discussed. In conclusion, the advent of methods of molecular genetics makes possible studies on genetic determinants of diabetic nephropathy. However, more clinical and epidemiological data are needed to find out how many genes are involved and how they interact with exposure to diabetes. Foremost, DNA from families with two or more siblings with diabetic nephropathy must be collected so that genetic studies will be possible.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00573478
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