Polymorphisms and the expression of genes encoding enzymes involved in cardiovascular diseases.
BACKGROUND
Atherosclerosis, a multi-factorial disease, is the main determinant of cardiovascular disease (CVD) leading to high mortality and morbidity in westernized countries. Gene polymorphisms and gene expression related to the atherosclerosis process can be identified using a genome-wide approach or looking for candidate disease-causing genes.


METHODS
Using genome wide strategy or candidate gene approach various genes, including paraoxonase genes, which are involved in lipid metabolism, oxidation, inflammation and coagulation, have been associated to atherosclerosis.


CONCLUSIONS
Evaluation of gene polymorphisms, together with traditional and novel biochemical parameters, may help identify individuals at a high risk for CVD. Genetic characterization of susceptibility genes may also lead to new drugs for atherosclerosis prevention and treatment. In addition, gene expression studies can provide novel insights into the molecular mechanism of lesion development and progression.
Fortunato
Giuliana
G
Dipartimento di Biochimica e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italy. fortunat@unina.it
Di Taranto
Maria D
MD
D000818:Animals; D050197:Atherosclerosis / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000201:enzymology* / Q000235:genetics*; D004798:Enzymes / Q000235:genetics*; D015971:Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D011110:Polymorphism, Genetic / Q000235:genetics*
D004798:Enzymes