C-reactive protein gene polymorphisms and the risk of venous thromboembolism: a haplotype-based analysis

R Y L Zee1, H H Hegener, N R Cook

  • 1Center for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention, Harvard-Reynolds Center for Cardiovascular Research, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. rzee@rics.bwh.harvard.edu

Insights

Genetic variations in the C-reactive protein (CRP) gene were not associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism. This study found no evidence linking specific CRP gene polymorphisms to the likelihood of developing blood clots in veins.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Epidemiology
  • Cardiovascular Disease

Background:

  • C-reactive protein (CRP) is a known predictor of athero-thrombotic events and has a heritable component.
  • CRP's role in venous thromboembolism (VTE) pathophysiology is suggested, but genetic associations remain unexplored.
  • Understanding genetic risk factors for VTE is crucial for preventative strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between specific C-reactive protein (CRP) gene polymorphisms and the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE).
  • To analyze the relationship between CRP gene variants and VTE in a prospective, matched case-control study.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective, matched case-control study design was employed using data from the Physicians Health Study.
  • Two CRP gene polymorphisms (1059G-->C and intronic T-->A) were analyzed in 130 VTE cases and 130 matched controls.
  • Haplotype-based matched logistic regression analysis was performed, adjusting for relevant covariates.

Main Results:

  • Allele, genotype, and haplotype distributions for the studied CRP gene polymorphisms were similar between cases and controls.
  • Genotype distributions were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, indicating a stable population.
  • Statistical analyses, including adjusted logistic regression, revealed no significant association between the tested CRP polymorphisms/haplotypes and VTE risk.

Conclusions:

  • The study found no evidence to support an association between the investigated CRP gene polymorphisms or haplotypes and the risk of venous thromboembolism.
  • These genetic findings suggest that CRP gene variants may not play a significant role in the development of VTE.
  • Further research may be needed to explore other genetic or environmental factors contributing to VTE risk.

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