Genetics and cardiovascular disease

The traditional risk factors associated with the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) account for approximately 50% of the variability in the risk for developing heart disease. Research in the genetic basis of CVD has helped scientists begin to quantify the nature of the additional unexplained variance. CVD may result from a variety of genetic causes, including single-gene mutations, the combined effect of more than one mutation, and the interaction of multiple genes and environmental factors. This article describes genetic influences on risk factors for CVD, discusses three genetic CVD disorders, and highlights recent developments in genetic therapy for the treatment of CVD.