Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 23, 2026

A Methodological Approach to Non-invasive Assessments of Vascular Function and Morphology
09:33

A Methodological Approach to Non-invasive Assessments of Vascular Function and Morphology

Published on: February 7, 2015

Fractalkine receptor/ligand genetic variants and carotid intima-media thickness

Stéphanie Debette, Steve Bevan, Jean-François Dartigues

    Stroke
    |April 18, 2009
    PubMed

    Insights

    Genetic variants in the fractalkine ligand/receptor (CX3CL1/CX3CR1) system were investigated for links to carotid atherosclerosis. No consistent associations were found across two large European cohorts, suggesting limited genetic influence on this vascular disease.

    Area of Science:

    • Cardiovascular Genetics
    • Immunology
    • Epidemiology

    Background:

    • The fractalkine ligand/receptor (CX3CL1/CX3CR1) system plays a role in inflammation and is implicated in vascular diseases.
    • This study investigated the association between genetic variations in CX3CL1 and CX3CR1 and carotid atherosclerosis.
    • Carotid atherosclerosis, a major risk factor for stroke, involves the buildup of plaque in the carotid arteries.

    Discussion:

    • Initial findings in a German cohort (CAPS) suggested associations between specific CX3CL1 and CX3CR1 polymorphisms and common carotid artery intima-media thickness (CCA-IMT).
    • Interactions between CX3CR1 variants and lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol) were observed in relation to CCA-IMT in the CAPS cohort.
    • However, these associations and interactions were not replicated in a large French cohort (3C Study), and only a borderline association with carotid plaques was noted in the 3C Study.

    Key Insights:

    • No replicable associations were found between CX3CL1/CX3CR1 polymorphisms and CCA-IMT in a combined analysis of nearly 9000 individuals.
    • No consistent genetic links were established between CX3CL1/CX3CR1 variants and the presence of carotid plaques.
    • The study did not support a significant role for common genetic variants in these genes in the development of carotid atherosclerosis in European populations.

    Outlook:

    • Further research may explore rare variants or different functional aspects of the CX3CL1/CX3CR1 system in vascular disease.
    • Investigating the interplay of CX3CL1/CX3CR1 with other inflammatory pathways could provide deeper insights.
    • The findings highlight the complexity of genetic contributions to atherosclerosis and the need for robust replication in diverse populations.
    Abstract

    More Related Videos

    Pulse-Wave Velocity, Flow-Mediated Dilation, and Carotid Intima-Media Thickness to Assess Cardiovascular Risk in Population with Metabolic Syndrome06:04

    Pulse-Wave Velocity, Flow-Mediated Dilation, and Carotid Intima-Media Thickness to Assess Cardiovascular Risk in Population with Metabolic Syndrome

    Published on: September 27, 2024

    Related Concept Videos

    Intracellular Signaling Affects Focal Adhesions01:17

    Intracellular Signaling Affects Focal Adhesions

    Integrins act both as extracellular input receivers and as intracellular processing activators. As their name suggests, integrins are entirely integrated into the membrane structure. Their hydrophobic membrane-spanning regions interact with the phospholipid bilayer's hydrophobic region. These membrane receptors provide extracellular attachment sites for effectors like hormones and growth factors. They activate intracellular response cascades when their effectors are bound and active.
    Some...
    Atherosclerosis I: Introduction01:30

    Atherosclerosis I: Introduction

    Atherosclerosis is a progressive disorder characterized by the buildup of plaques on the arterial inner wall, causing them to narrow and harden over time. These plaques comprise lipids, calcium, blood components, carbohydrates, and fibrous tissue. The process primarily affects the intima of large and medium-sized arteries, reducing blood flow in any artery.Etiology and risk factorsThe cause of atherosclerosis is multifactorial, involving a complex interplay among endothelial injury, lipid...
    Pharmacogenetic Phenotypes: Alterations in Pharmacokinetics, Drug Targets and Biologic Milieu01:29

    Pharmacogenetic Phenotypes: Alterations in Pharmacokinetics, Drug Targets and Biologic Milieu

    Genetic variations significantly influence drug response through pharmacokinetics, receptor interactions, and biologic milieu modifications. Pharmacokinetic alterations impact drug metabolism and clearance, affecting efficacy and toxicity. Variants in drug-metabolizing enzymes, such as CYP2C9 and CYP2C19, alter drug activation and elimination. For example, CYP2C9 loss-of-function variants require lower warfarin doses to prevent excessive bleeding, while CYP2C19 variants reduce clopidogrel...