Epigenetics – chemical modifications of DNA, histones or non-coding RNAs, which affect gene expression – have been linked to several diseases, including diabetes. This module explores our growing understanding of the association between type 2 diabetes and epigenetic modifications in the beta cell, which could in turn pave the way for biomarkers and therapies to support better diabetes management.
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
✓ Explain the main types of epigenetic modifications and mechanisms
✓ Examine the importance of epigenetic modifications and mechanisms in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes
✓ Summarise the potential for blood-based epigenetic biomarkers to predict type 2 diabetes and its complications, the response to treatment and the identification of new therapeutic targets
This module includes self-marked assessments, such as knowledge checks and/or case studies, as well as a marked final assessment, which you can attempt up to five times. To complete the module, you must review all chapters, pass the final assessment (80% pass mark), and fill in our feedback form.