Genetic determinants in ischemic heart disease

Abstract

The present paper is a review of current knowledge about the relations between gene polymorphism and predisposition for ischemic heart disease. Many studies investigate polymorphic variants of genes whose protein products contribute to the genesis and development of atherosclerosis of coronary arteries, thrombogenesis and fibrinolysis and other processes significant for the progression of ischemic heart disease. In ischemic heart disease the most often analyzed genes are those connected with metabolism of lipids, the coagulation and fibrinolytic system and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Factors of inflammation (cytokines, TNF), proliferation of smooth muscles cells and vasoactivation are also important. Manifestation of the illness is connected with accumulation of several genetic determinants, while the clinical picture is additionally modified by environmental factors. Studies of genetic etiopathogenesis of ischemic heart disease may result in effective prevention and treatment in particular patients.