Aging is one of the main risk factors for 2 type diabetes, but the biological mechanisms that link age to decline pancreatic function remain poorly understood. In a recent study, Amna Khamis and Philippe Froguel (INSERM U1283, CNRS UMR8199, ULille, CHU de Lille) carried out an integrated analysis of the epigenome, the transcriptome and of the human pancreatic islet genome in order to better understand the impact of aging on the producing cells of insulin. Researchers show that normal aging of the pancreas is accompanied by a epigenetic remodeling organized, affecting key regions involved in the function of beta cells et insulin secretionConversely, type 2 diabetes is associated with distinct epigenetic modifications, characterized by a gene dysregulation involved in cell identity, cellular stress, and inflammation. The researchers also developed an epigenetic score based on aging markers identified in the pancreas and found in the blood. Combined with a score of polygenic riskEpigenetic scoring improves the prediction of type 2 diabetes risk. These results open new perspectives for understanding the early mechanisms leading to diabetes and developing more targeted prevention strategies.
Epigenetic landscapes in human pancreatic islets reveal distinct drivers for adaptation to age and type 2 diabetes.
Maurin L, Marselli L, Boissel M,… Marchetti P, Froguel P, Khamis A.
Nature Communications.. 2026 Jun 3;17(1):4811. doi: 10.1038/s41467-026-73222-w.
U1283 – UMR8199 “METAB-OMICS Multi-omics and pathophysiology of metabolic diseases” University of Lille – Lille University Hospital – CNRS – Inserm – Pasteur Institute of Lille
