From the SSH libraries, a total of 17 genes were identified and verified using qPCR and Western blotting, and the results suggested that six genes (Sardh, Slc39a7, Arg1, Pfn1, Cth, Fabp4) may be associated with metabolism and diabetes in gerbils, with a further two genes having support from qPCR but not Western blotting analysis (Sod1, P4hb). The gene discussed is SLC39A7; the disease is diabetes mellitus.