Type 2 Diabetes

The aetiopathogenesis of Type 2 diabetes is a major research area.  Gestational diabetes has been studied as a model of early Type 2 diabetes, permitting the investigation of predisposed subjects before the onset of diabetes.  The role of insulin resistance in the causation of fatty liver, which frequently accompanies Type 2 diabetes, is being investigated in collaborative studies.  The genetic basis of Type 2 diabetes has been investigated using family-based and other approaches.  A population study of screening for diabetes is under way and  will ascertain patients with diabetes, lesser degrees of glucose intolerance and other CHD risk factors.  This screening study will provide a framework for genetic epidemiology studies in diabetes and CHD, integrating genetic, conventional physiology and metabonomic approaches.  The ethnic mix of this population provides an opportunity to explore the basis for ethnic differences in diabetes and CHD risk.

Diabetes Research Network

The Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism Section at St Mary's also works as the coordinating centre for the UK Diabetes Research Network (DRN).  Professor Desmond Johnston serves as the Director of the DRN which is coordinated by Imperial College in conjunction with the Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism at the University of Oxford. 

The DRN has eight branches, Local Research Networks (LRNs), which are spread countrywide.  The North West London branch is based at St Mary's Hospital, with Professor Robert Elkeles as the Clinical Head.

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