1328-P: Exploring DNA Methylation-Based EpiMetabolic Index via Direct-to-Consumer Testing for Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment

Introduction: Investigating new biomarkers for type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk screening, especially for non-typical high-risk groups, is essential for prevention. Direct-to-consumer (DTC) tests bypass traditional lab visits for convenience and encourage screening. This study evaluates the association between a DNA methylation-based EpiMetabolic index (eMI) DTC testing and T2D.

Methods: The EpiMetabolic indexz (eMI) was estimated through linear regression of DNA methylation at 15 regions associated with diabetes and metabolic traits (e.g., ABCG1, CPT1A, PHGDH, SREBF1). Blood samples, mainly collected at home, were sent to the CLIA facility (Pangea laboratory) for targeted next-gen sequencing. Customer medical data was self-reported online. Only adults with specific metabolic statuses and valid epi-metabolic indices were included. Independent variables: birth-assigned sex, diabetes, and medication (e.g., statins). The dependent variable was the epi-metabolic index. We studied each factor's individual effects using one-way ANOVA and combined them with sex for interaction effects using two-way ANOVA.

Results: Significant associations were found between an accelerated eMI and prediabetes/diabetes (p=0.001). Some lifestyle associations (e.g., exercise) lacked statistical significance, potentially due to self-report biases. Notably, a significant association existed between statin usage and an elevated eMI.

Conclusions: This study on the DTC cohort identifies an association between eMI and diabetes/prediabetes status, emphasizing the potential use of DNA methylation-based DTC as a practical tool for monitoring individuals at diabetes risk. This approach can benefit those lacking consistent access to care due to financial, social, cultural, or geographical barriers.