Genetics/Genomics News

Inherited defects affecting the heart at birth are the most common of all birth defects in the world. About 5% of congenital heart defects are due to atrioventricular septal defects and the prevalence is about 0.4% per 1,000 live births.

Researchers were able to use genetic screening to identify mutations responsible for thoracic aortic aneurysms in a recent study.

Previous research established an association between CAD and migraine, especially migraine with aura, but new study data suggest that gene variants may not be the cause. In fact, genetic variants shared by migraine without aura and CAD were protective against CVD, researchers reported.

CHICAGO — A PCSK9 loss-of-function genetic variant was associated with a cardioprotective effect, but increased prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia, according to results presented at the National Lipid Association Scientific Sessions.

Researchers have found clinically actionable pharmacogenetic information for 51 CV drugs and compiled recommendations for use in clinical practice.

Researchers have found genetic overlap between Alzheimer’s disease, high levels of C-reactive protein and plasma lipids.

People with genetically determined shorter height have an increased risk for CAD. Researchers for a new study found a relative increase of 13.5% in the risk for CAD per one standard deviation decrease in genetically determined height, according to findings published in The New England Journal of Medicine.

Patients with familial hypercholesterolemia had a lower prevalence of type 2 diabetes compared with relatives without familial hypercholesterolemia, according to a cross-sectional analysis.

Adults with the highest genetic risk for CHD derived the greatest benefits from statin therapy, regardless of traditional risk factors, according to new findings.

Inflammation may have a protective effect on cardiovascular health, according to results of a large study by the Interleukin-1 Genetics consortium that examined the effects of a gene found in anakinra, a drug previously studied in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.