Two mutations on a single gene were
found to effectively lower the risk of heart attacks. The mutations were found
on the DBH gene, which regulates an enzyme that is involved in converting
dopamine and norepinephrine, both of which are chemical messengers and
hormones. Norepinephrine over stimulates the heart, which can increase the
risk of heart attacks. The mutations independently do not affect the gene
enough to cause any noticeable results however when the two interact, the DBH gene
is reduced. This leaves the body in conditions that protect against heart
attacks.
Patients were examined and it
was found that those who carry the two variants were two to five times less
likely to suffer a heart attack. Only 20% of the population was found to carry
these two mutations. This information will help physicians to better confront
heart issues. Beta Blockers are generally used to lower risks of heart attacks
however the 20% of the population that carry these two mutations may not
benefit from them. In fact, Beta Blockers could cause more issues elsewhere for the
patient. Our bodies need norepinephrine in order to keep airways open, and lack
of the hormone may cause asthma in patients.
This
article presents vital information on how to treat those who may be at risk for
heart attacks. Without the knowledge of these two mutations and their affects,
patients who already have heart issues but are then prescribed beta blockers
may not benefit from the treatment and may in fact end up sicker than they originally
began. The goal of the patients
treatment is to affectively prevent heart attacks with as few side affects as
possible, and the possibility of causing asthma to arise in an individual who
would not have otherwise had asthma seems careless. Patients should be screened
for these two mutations on the DBH gene, and if they are present the patient
should be given another form of treatment if possible.
Related Link: http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/22/6/1125.full.pdf
Screening for the mutations in patients reminds me about Obama's push for precision medicine, which would help specialize treatment for people. My father suffered a heart attack at a very young age so this is interesting to me that beta blockers could be doing more harm than good for those with the mutations. I definitely would like to see more information about this as this opens more opportunities to be more specific in patient care.
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