Genetic studies assessing the effects of variants in a broader range of genes suggest a more general link between lower LDL cholesterol and higher risk of type 2 diabetes.4, 5 Consistent with this finding, patients with autosomal dominant familial hypercholesterolaemia caused by mutations in the LDL receptor and apolipoprotein B genes are 50% less likely to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes compared with their unaffected relatives.6 The gene discussed is APOB; the disease is type 2 diabetes mellitus.