Scientists at the University of Cambridge have discovered that a rare and severe form hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is genetic. The findings are likely to pave the way for a new treatment that will be available soon, say experts.
Researchers found that the condition, which if left untreated can be life threatening, is the result of a mutation in the AKT2 gene.
“Fear of low blood sugar has dominated the lives of these patients and their families,” Dr. Robert Semple, one of the researchers, told the BBC.
The findings appear in the journal Science. There are already drugs in existence used for cancer that act against AKT2, according to lead researcher Professor Stephen O’Rahilly.
“There are actual pills that can be swallowed by humans. There could be a treatment in a year.”