Epigenetic Regulation of Adipocyte genes in Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DMM) is a complex metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia due to insulin insensitivity and insufficient synthesis of insulin by pancreatic β-cells. Tumor Necrosis Factor α (TNFα), one of the major pro-inflammatory cytokines released by adipose tissue, is largely associated with insulin resistance by attenuation of insulin signaling. Individuals with obesity and T2DM show a noticeable increase in the levels of TNFα. Therefore, TNFα serves as an important culprit in progression of T2DM and acts as a significant target for therapy in T2DM. This study was designed to correlate the changes in expression of TNFα with DNA methylation status of its promoter. Therefore, expression of TNFα and changes in DNA methylation patterns at its promoter region were analyzed between control and T2DM individuals. The results depicted reduced DNA methylation at the TNFα promoter indicating enhanced transcription and thus, elevated levels of TNFα in individuals with T2DM.