Assessing the Role of TCF7L2 and FTO Gene Variants and Lifestyle Factors in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Background:

A common metabolic condition that is impacted by both genetic predisposition and changeable lifestyle variables is gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Objective:

To assess the association of TCF7L2 and FTO gene variants along with lifestyle determinants in the development of GDM among pregnant women in Pakistan.

Methodology:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Bashir Hospital, Sialkot, in collaboration with the University of Sialkot, from March 2023 to February 2024. One hundred GDM cases and one hundred non-GDM controls, matched by age and gestational age, made up the 200 pregnant women that were recruited.  PCR-based techniques were used to extract genomic DNA and genotype for FTO (rs9939609) and TCF7L2 (rs7903146).  A standardized questionnaire was used to gather information on lifestyle variables, such as food habits, physical activity, and family history of diabetes.  SPSS version 25 was used for statistical analysis, and relationships were found using logistic regression.

Results:

GDM patients had a substantially higher frequency of the TCF7L2 rs7903146 T allele (41%) than controls (22%), with a p-value of 0.004.  Similarly, 38% of GDM patients had the FTO rs9939609 A allele, compared to 19% of controls (p = 0.006).  GDM was also substantially correlated with a positive family history of type 2 diabetes mellitus (p = 0.002), excessive consumption of refined carbohydrates (p = 0.003), and physical inactivity (p = 0.001).

Conclusion:

Both genetic variants and adverse lifestyle factors significantly contribute to the risk of GDM among Pakistani women.