Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 16, 2026

Scanning Electron Microscopy of Macerated Tissue to Visualize the Extracellular Matrix
Published on: June 14, 2016
[Hereditary factors and left ventricular hypertrophy]
Insights
Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a significant cardiovascular risk factor. Genetic factors, including genes in hormonal and receptor pathways, play a crucial role in its development.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Context:
- Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a major independent risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
- LVH is a stronger coronary risk factor in hypertensive patients than casual blood pressure readings.
- The correlation between hypertension severity, duration, and left ventricular mass is often poor, suggesting other contributing factors.
Purpose:
- To review and present gene groups implicated in the development of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH).
- To identify specific genes associated with LVH development.
- To explore the genetic underpinnings of LVH beyond traditional risk factors.
Summary:
- This review categorizes genes contributing to LVH development into five groups: hormonal pathways, sympathetic/parasympathetic receptors, intracellular ion homeostasis, energy metabolism, and motor unit regulation.
- Specific genes identified and associated with LVH include those encoding angiotensinogen, angiotensin-converting enzyme, angiotensin receptor type 1, aldosterone synthase, nitric oxide synthase, type A natriuretic peptide receptor, beta(2)-adrenergic receptor, and G-protein beta(3) subunit.
- These genetic factors offer potential targets for understanding and managing LVH.
Impact:
- Highlights the significant role of genetic predisposition in left ventricular hypertrophy.
- Provides a framework for further research into gene-environment interactions in cardiovascular disease.
- May inform future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for managing LVH and its associated cardiovascular risks.
Abstract:
Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is an independent risk factor for morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular disease in men and women with hypertension and in asymptomatic subjects with normal blood pressure. In hypertensive patients it is a stronger coronary risk factor than casual blood pressure readings. Correlation between levels of high blood pressure, duration of hypertension and left ventricular mass is poor. Epidemiological studies suggest that left ventricular hypertrophy may be influenced by genetic factors. In our review we present study groups of genes contributing to the development of left ventricular hypertrophy: 1) genes that encode components of hormonal pathways, 2) genes of key sympathetic and parasympathetic receptors, 3) genes that modify intracellular ion homeostasis, 4) genes that modify energy metabolism, 5) genes that modify motor unit composition and regulation. Angiotensinogen gene, angiotensin-converting enzyme gene, angiotensin receptor type 1 gene, aldosterone synthase gene, nitric oxide synthase gene, type A natriuretic peptide receptor gene, beta(2)-adrenergic receptor gene, G-protein beta(3) subunit gene are associated with left ventricular hypertrophy.
Related Concept Videos
Pathophysiology of Heart Failure
Mitral Regurgitation I: Introduction
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Heart Failure I: Introduction
Heart Failure II: Pathophysiology
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

