Genetics and epigenetics in gestational diabetes contributing to type 2 diabetes.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common pregnancy complication and a risk factor for the subsequent development of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in mothers and of several metabolic diseases in offspring. However, the molecular underpinnings of these risks are not well understood. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and epigenetic studies may provide complementary insights into the causal relationships between GDM exposure and maternal/offspring metabolic outcomes. In this review we discuss the potential pathophysiological roles of specific genetic variants and commonly reported differentially methylated loci in GDM development, and their link to the progression to T2D in both the mother and the offspring in later life, pointing to the potential for tailored interventional strategies based on these genetic and epigenetic mechanisms.