Heart attacks are one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and it has been a mystery for a long time as to why some people are more prone to them than others.
However, researchers have now discovered that a genetic mutation could be responsible for a substantial proportion of heart attacks.
The study
The study was conducted by researchers at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, along with colleagues from other research institutions.
They analyzed genetic data from more than 22,000 individuals, both with and without a history of heart attack, to identify genetic variations that were linked to an increased risk of heart attack.
The researchers focused on a gene called ANGPTL4, which codes for a protein that regulates blood lipid levels. They found a variant of the gene that was associated with a 50% increase in the risk of heart attack in the individuals studied.
The mechanism
The researchers discovered that the ANGPTL4 gene variant led to the production of a defective form of the protein it codes for.
This defective protein led to an increase in levels of a type of blood fat called triglycerides, which are known to be a risk factor for heart attack.
The researchers also found that the protein produced by the normal ANGPTL4 gene plays an important role in protecting the lining of blood vessels from damage caused by inflammation.
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The defective protein produced by the gene variant did not provide this protective effect, making individuals with the variant more susceptible to damage to their blood vessels.
Implications
The discovery of the genetic cause of heart attacks has important implications for the prevention and treatment of heart disease.
By identifying individuals with the ANGPTL4 gene variant, doctors could potentially intervene earlier and take steps to reduce their risk of heart attack.
The researchers also believe that drugs could be developed to target the defective form of the ANGPTL4 protein, reducing the risk of heart attack in individuals with the gene variant.
Limitations
It is important to note that the ANGPTL4 gene variant only accounts for a proportion of heart attacks, and other factors such as lifestyle and environment also play a role.
This means that even individuals without the gene variant can still be at risk of heart attack, and lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise remain crucial for preventing heart disease.
Conclusion
The discovery of the genetic cause of heart attacks is a major breakthrough in the field of cardiovascular disease research.
By shedding light on the role of the ANGPTL4 gene in heart attack risk, researchers have opened up new avenues for prevention and treatment of heart disease, potentially saving countless lives in the future.
