Thursday, November 23, 2017

How the PCSK9 and APOC3 Gene Effect Heart Disease



Image result for heart disease genes


Recent studies in genetics have discovered new targets to reduce heart disease. A new mutation in the PCSK9 gene has been discovered that is common in people with heart disease. People who have this mutation in this gene have shown low levels of bad cholesterol. With this discovery, new medication that act as PCSK9 inhibitors have reduced the bad cholesterol in people that have high levels. Researchers have confirmed that these inhibitors have reduced the risk of a stroke or heart attack by 15 percent in people.
                The mutation in this gene plays a role in breaking down built up plaque in people’s arties which reduces the risks of a stroke or heart attack. People who have unhealthy bad cholesterol levels tend to have plaque built up in their arteries.
                Another gene that has been studied is the APOC3 gene. Studies have shown that the absent of this gene reduces the risk of heart disease and the common side effects of heart disease like strokes and heart attacks. Researchers in the Radar lab tested the absence of the APOC3 gene in mice and discovered that lower levels of APOC3 protein lead to a lower risk of heart attacks and strokes. This is because the antibody that targets this protein was able to break down the triglyceride-rich lipoproteins.
                This is a promising study since it can lead to new advances in medications that can help reduce the risk of heart disease and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. With this, researchers will continue to study the genes that are common in heart disease and make new advances in medications and precautions to help reduce the risks of this disease. 

Link to Source:

Link to other source:

No comments:

Post a Comment