Mutations of the INS (insulin) gene can result in diabetes. The INS gene contains a blueprint for the insulin hormone. Disruption of this gene affects the normal function of insulin.
Presentation:
INS diabetes is typically diagnosed before 6 months of age and is often misdiagnosed as Type 1 diabetes mellitus. Rarely, diabetes will not develop until later in life, which can then be confused with MODY.
Treatment:
Unlike other forms of monogenic diabetes, oral medications do not correct the elevated blood sugars. Lifelong insulin shots or insulin pump therapy are required.
Inheritance:
Finding an INS mutation in a patient’s family may have implications for other family members. An affected person’s child will each be at a 50% risk of inheriting the mutation and developing diabetes.
Research:
If you or a family member have an INS mutation or suspect yourself or a family member of having an INS mutation then please contact us to learn more about our studies.
