Activating Mutations in the Gene Encoding Kir6.2 Alter Fetal and Postnatal Growth and Also Cause Neonatal Diabetes

Abstract

Kir6.2 mutations greatly reduce fetal insulin secretion and hence fetal growth, but this is independent of mutation severity. Increased fetal growth in response to maternal diabetes suggests that either the Kir6.2 mutated fetal beta-cell is still glucose responsive or there is a non-insulin-mediated increase in fetal growth. Postnatal catch-up requires insulin treatment but is complete, except in those with epilepsy.