Moreover, Alu RNAs act to suppress the expression of both endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) during hyperglycemic conditions (Wang et al. 2016), suggesting a regulatory role of Alu elements during oxidative stress and strengthening the link between Alu element activity and diabetes. This evidence concerns the gene SOD2 and diabetes mellitus.