Vitamin D and Type 2 diabetes mellitus (维生素D与2型糖尿病)

Based on increasing evidence from animal and human studies, vitamin D deficiency is now regarded as a potential risk factor for Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Vitamin D is involved in the pathogenesis of pancreatic β‐cell dysfunction, insulin resistance, and systemic inflammation, conditions that contribute to the development of T2DM. Vitamin D can affect the progress of this disease directly through the activation of its own receptor, and indirectly via the regulation of calcium homeostasis. Observational studies have revealed the association between vitamin D deficiency and incident T2DM. More double‐blind randomized control studies that investigate the effects of vitamin D supplementation on insulin sensitivity, insulin secretion, and the occurrence of T2DM are needed.     

Type 2 diabetes mellitus‐related genetic polymorphisms in microRNAs and microRNA target sites (MicroRNAs中与2型糖尿病相关的基因多态性及microRNA靶位)

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important endogenous regulators in eukaryotic gene expression and a broad range of biological processes. MiRNA‐related genetic variations have been proved to be associated with human diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Polymorphisms in miRNA genes (primary miRNAs, precursor miRNAs, mature miRNAs, and miRNA regulatory regions) may be involved in the development of T2DM by changing the expression and structure of miRNAs and target gene expression. Genetic polymorphisms of the 3′‐untranslated region (UTR) in miRNA target genes may destroy putative miRNA binding sites or create new miRNA binding sites, which affects the binding of UTRs with miRNAs, finally resulting in susceptibility to and development of T2DM. Therefore, focusing on studies into genetic polymorphisms in miRNAs or miRNA binding sites will help our understanding of the pathophysiology of T2DM development and lead to better health management. Herein, we review the association of genetic polymorphisms in miRNA and miRNA targets genes with T2DM development.