Researchers have uncovered a new gene that could lead to better treatment of type 2 diabetes. The new gene, called Insulin Receptor Substrate 1 (IRS1), affects how the body responds to insulin already in the bloodstream. IRS1 is the first to be activated by insulin. In some diabetics, the signal to turn this gene on and off might be impaired. Co-author of the study Dr. Robert Sladek of McGill University said he hopes this discovery may lead to new therapeutic lines of attack in the future.

This article originally appeared in the November 2009 issue of Kidney Beginnings: The Electronic Newsletter.