Diabetes – could disturbed circadian rhythm be at fault?

[10 November 2009 - 09h26]

Researchers at the CNRS (the French National Centre for Scientific Research) and the Pasteur Institute, Lille, have discovered a genetic link between the regulation of circadian rhythm and type 2 diabetes. More precisely, they have shown that mutations in the gene responsible for melatonin production can lead to higher glycaemia (blood sugar levels), thus increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

The circadian cycle affects our metabolism. For example, it affects body temperature, sleep phases and variations in blood pressure. Many hormones, including melatonin in fact, play a part in regulating our circadian rhythm. Consequently, they control the duration and quality of our sleep … and our mood. Which shows how important they are for our metabolism.

When these rhythms are disturbed this can, among other things, lead to problems with insulin secretion. The results of this study – conducted jointly by the CNRS and the Pasteur Institute, Lille – have shown that glycaemia is strongly regulated by a small number of genes. “People who carry several mutations of these genes have pre-diabetic glycaemic profiles”, the authors point out. This is a discovery that, within a few years, may give us a better understanding of the etiology of diabetes.

Could there be a connection? A report presented to the French Academy of Medicine draws attention to the fact that the more disadvantaged members of society are also those at greatest risk of diabetes. In fact, the prevalence of the disease is three times greater among this group. Which is hardly surprising when one considers that the vast majority of people with obesity come into this group. And obesity… as we know only too well… is a gateway to diabetes.

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