APA Dictionary of Psychology

the gene that encodes the protein known as transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2) and that is most strongly associated with the risk of Type 2 diabetes. Early identification of the presence of a certain polymorphism on this gene allows individuals to reduce their risk of developing diabetes mellitus by means of diet, exercise, and medication. A separate mutation on the TCF7L2 gene has been identified as a possible predictor of colorectal cancer.