Genetic variation 'reduces risk of heart disease in women'

Conclusion This laboratory study found that women with adenine on either strand of an SNP in a section of chromosome 16 have a lower risk of CVD, as evidenced by a slower increase in thickness of the carotid arteries over a six-year period. These findings were replicated in the meta-analysis of all five cohort studies. No association was found for men. Further laboratory studies found the gene called BCAR1 – which is located nearby on the same chromosome – is more active in women with guanine on both strands of the SNP. BCAR1 is not a new gene – it is present in men and women, and has a variety of functions throughout the body. It is not yet known if this gene has a role in the development of CVD, but this will no doubt be a focus of future research. Regardless of whether the risk of CVD is slightly higher or lower according to your genes, the most important thing you can do to reduce your risk of CVD is to stop smoking. Other modifiable risk factors are to take regular exercise, lose weight, have a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruit and vegetables, limit your alcohol intake, and reduce your blood pressure. Links To The Headlines Heart disease gene 'found in women'. BBC News, October 21 2015 Links To Science Boardman-Pretty F, Smith AJP, Cooper J, et al. Functional Analysis of a Carotid Intima-Media Thickness Locus Implicates BCAR1 and Suggests a Causal Variant. Circulation: Cardiovascular Genetics. Published online August 14 2015
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Genetics/stem cells Heart/lungs Source Type: news