Scientists find genetic cause of CAD

Researchers from the US Duke University Medical Center have identified a variation in the neuropeptide Y (NPY) gene that increases susceptibility  to early coronary artery disease.

The researchers evaluated 1,000 families for CAD or evidence of a true  heart attack, as part of the GENECARD study. An independent,  non-familial study showed a strong relationship between the NPY genetic  variants associated with coronary disease. The genetic results were even  stronger in patients with onset of CAD before the age of 37.

The group further examined NPY levels in blood and found that, among the  six variants, there is a single-nucleotide change of the DNA code on the  NPY promoter region of the gene. Mouse studies subsequently confirmed  that the NPY pathway promotes atherosclerosis.