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HNF4A

Associated conditions:

  • MODY1

HNF4A makes a master switch protein that tells pancreatic beta cells how to release insulin in response to glucose. Genetic changes in this gene are associated with an autosomal dominant, young-onset inherited form of diabetes called MODY1. Knowing your genetic status enables a correct diagnosis, since it is often very sensitive to low-dose sulfonylurea tablets, changing treatment away from insulin.

Conditions linked to HNF4A

MODY1

MODY is an inherited form of diabetes that appears in younger people and is caused by a single gene. Identifying it matters because some types are best treated with specific tablets rather than insulin, and it has implications for relatives.