Why are we interested in studying genes in type 1 diabetes research?
We know that type 1 diabetes occurs most often in individuals who have certain combinations of genes. However these genes alone are not sufficient to cause the condition, but in combination with as yet unidentified environmental factors, type 1 diabetes is initiated in genetically susceptible individuals. If we understand how certain genes contribute someone developing the condition, then we can develop strategies to combat the effects of these genes. Since our Genetics Laboratory was established in 1998 we have collected DNA samples from more than 6,000 people participating in the Bart’s Oxford Family Study We are very thankful to everyone who participated because using data from these samples we have carried out and contributed to (in collaboration with numerous other researchers worldwide) many studies defining the importance of genes in susceptibility to type 1 diabetes.
