Researchers have identified a unique pattern of small molecules in the blood that may predict future risk of type 2 diabetes better than traditional clinical risk factors such as age, weight and family history. This large study, which analysed data from more than 23 000 adults followed for up to 26 years, found 235 metabolites linked to higher or lower likelihood of developing the disease, including many that reflect lifestyle and genetic influences. The findings were published in the journal Nature Medicine and offer new insights into how metabolism connects diet, physical activity and genetic predisposition with diabetes risk. Scientists developed a metabolomic signature composed of 44 metabolites that improved prediction of future type 2 diabetes risk beyond conventional risk models. This signature includes molecules related to lipid metabolism, amino acid pathways and energy regulation, and it appears to capture diverse biological signals that traditional measures miss. Experts say these results could help identify high-risk individuals earlier and inform personalised prevention strategies that target specific metabolic pathways tied to lifestyle, diet and genetic background. Further research is needed to confirm how best to integrate these markers into clinical care and preventive health programmes.
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