Abstract: This invention relates to methods for determining the risk of developing cataract in mammals, and, more specifically, in mammals, including humans, with non-insulin dependent diabetes. The methods are performed by determining the presence or absence of genetic markers in genomic DNA. The presence of a Z-2 allele, a microsatellite marker of the aldose reductase, is indicative of an increased risk for developing cataract. The presence of Z-4, a microsatellite allele of the aldose reductase gene, indicates a decreased risk for developing cataract. The methods comprise nucleic acid probes that hybridize to a nucleic acid encoding the microsatellite region of the mammalian aldose reductase gene. The probes may also be immobilized on a solid support to form a microarray.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for identifying mutations and polymorphisms in mutant genes encoding gene product involved in insulin secretion, for example, hepatocyte nuclear factor-1?, glucokinase, amylin and mitochondrial DNA are disclosed. Specifically, a microchip comprising a combination of at least two different mutant genes wherein each gene comprises at least one mutation indicative of a predisposition for type-2 diabetes in a member of a Chinese population is disclosed. A kit comprising the microchip, an isolated nucleic acid, primers and probes which are specifically used to screen or identify the mutations in genes of hepatocyte nuclear factor-1?, glucokinase, amylin and mitochondrial DNA are also disclosed.