Variance of the SGK1 Gene Is Associated with Insulin Secretion in Different European Populations: Results from the TUEF, EUGENE2, and METSIM Studies
2008

SGK1 Gene Variance and Insulin Secretion in European Populations

Sample size: 725 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Friedrich Björn, Weyrich Peter, Stančáková Alena, Wang Jianjung, Kuusisto Johanna, Laakso Markku, Sesti Giorgio, Succurro Elena, Smith Ulf, Hansen Torben, Pedersen Oluf, Machicao Fausto, Schäfer Silke, Lang Florian, Risler Teut, Ullrich Susanne, Stefan Norbert, Fritsche Andreas, Häring Hans-Ulrich

Primary Institution: University of Tübingen

Hypothesis

SGK1 is involved in the regulation of insulin secretion and may represent a candidate gene for the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus in humans.

Conclusion

The SGK genotype rs9402571 is associated with increased insulin secretion in lean non-diabetic individuals and lower diabetes prevalence.

Supporting Evidence

  • Carriers of the minor G allele in rs9402571 had significantly higher C-peptide levels in the 2 h OGTT.
  • The effect on insulin secretion was significant only in lean participants.
  • The findings were replicated in the EUGENE2 cohort.
  • The METSIM trial showed a lower prevalence of type 2 diabetes in rs9402571 minor allele carriers.

Takeaway

This study found that a specific gene variant helps lean people produce more insulin, which may protect them from diabetes.

Methodology

Three independent European populations were analyzed for the association of SGK1 gene variations and insulin secretion traits using genetic analysis and oral glucose tolerance tests.

Limitations

The study's findings may not apply to overweight or obese individuals as the effects were only significant in lean participants.

Participant Demographics

The study included non-diabetic individuals from three European cohorts, with varying ages and BMI.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.04

Confidence Interval

95%CI: 0.71–1.01

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0003506

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