The first genetic link has been found connecting sleep patterns to type 2 diabetes, which could lead to early screening tests to see who may be susceptible to the condition.

In the study, researchers uncovered a gene that detects melatonin, a hormone involved in the sleeping process, and found a connection with high blood sugar, the Guardian reports. This increased the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Researchers examined the genomes of approximately 36,610 people of European decent to look for any changes that could increase the risk of the condition, according to the article. The finding was published in the December 7th edition of Nature Genetics.

"We have extremely strong, incontrovertible evidence that the gene encoding melatonin receptor 1B is associated with high fasting glucose levels and increased risk of type 2 diabetes," said Professor Mark McCarthy, one of the researchers.

Melatonin, which has also been sold as an over-the-counter sleep aid, may have a connection with insulin production and could lead scientists to further investigate the melatonin levels of sleep-deprived people, ScienceNews reports.

Leif Groop, an endocrinologist from Lund University in Sweden, told the magazine the finding of the melatonin connection was a "fascinating new target for diabetes treatments.