Background Many studies have been conducted on the genetic and epigenetic etiology of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in the last two decades because of the disease’s increasing prevalence and role in global diabetes mellitus (DM) explosion. An update on the genetic and epigenetic etiology of GDM then becomes imperative to better understand and stem the rising incidence of the disease. This review, therefore, articulated GDM candidate genes and their pathophysiology for the awareness of stakeholders. Main body (genetic and epigenetic etiology, GDM) The search discovered 83 GDM candidate genes, of which TCF7L2, MTNR1B, CDKAL1, IRS1, and KCNQ1 are the most prevalent. Certain polymorphisms of these genes can modulate beta-cell dysfunction, adiposity, obesity, and insulin resistance through several mechanisms. Environmental triggers such as diets, pollutants, and microbes may also cause epigenetic changes in these genes, resulting in a loss of insulin-boosting and glucose metabolism functions. Early detection and adequate management may resolve the condition after delivery; otherwise, it will progress to maternal type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and fetal configuration to future obesity and DM. This shows that GDM is a strong risk factor for T2DM and, in rare cases, type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY). This further shows that GDM significantly contributes to the rising incidence and burden of DM worldwide and its prevention may reverse the trend. Conclusion Mutations and epigenetic changes in certain genes are strong risk factors for GDM. For affected individuals with such etiologies, medical practitioners should formulate drugs and treatment procedures that target these genes and their pathophysiology.
Cement is widely used in the building industry because it is reliable and because its basic ingredients are inexpensive and abundant. However, the production of cement produces heavy metal-laden dust that can harm humans and the environment. This study aimed to determine the risk posed by heavy metals in the soil around a cement company in Sokoto, Nigeria. Soil samples were obtained at 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 km from the company and served as test samples, while control samples were obtained at 5.0 km away. The soil samples were treated and assayed for lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) using atomic absorption spectroscopy. The values obtained were used to estimate the heavy metals’ average daily inhalation (ADI), average daily dermal exposure (ADDE), hazard quotient (HQ), health risk index (HRI), and carcinogenic risk (CR). Permissible levels of all the heavy metals were detected at all the locations (0.1 > 0.5 > 1.0 > 5.0 km). However, the ADI, ADDE, HQ, HRI, and CR of the heavy metals were above the permissible limits. It can be inferred from the results that the soil around the company can predispose humans to heavy metal toxicities. Consequently, the company needs to prioritize pollution control.
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