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Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Investigating the Pathogenesis of MYH7 Mutation Gly823Glu in Familial Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy using a Mouse Model
Published on: August 8, 2022
[Sudden unexpected death--hypertrophic cardiomyopathy--genetically verified post-mortem]
Maiken Kudahl Larsen1, Jytte Banner Lundemose, Henrik Kjaerulf Jensen
1Retsmedicinsk Institut, Aarhus Universitet, DK-8200 Arhus N. ml@retsmedicin.au.dk
Insights
Sudden cardiac death can be the first sign of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Autopsy and genetic testing in a young man identified a MYBPC3 mutation, aiding family screening and prevention.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Genetics
- Pathology
Background:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic heart muscle disease.
- HCM can present as sudden cardiac death, particularly in young individuals.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing HCM risk.
Observation:
- A case of sudden cardiac death in a 25-year-old male is presented.
- Post-mortem examination revealed previously undiagnosed left ventricular hypertrophy.
- Molecular genetic analysis identified a mutation in the myosin-binding protein C (MYBPC3) gene.
Findings:
- The MYBPC3 mutation is a known cause of HCM.
- Autopsy findings correlated with genetic results, confirming HCM as the cause of death.
- Integrated autopsy and genetic screening can identify the specific cause of sudden cardiac death.
Implications:
- Genetic screening of relatives can identify at-risk individuals for HCM.
- Early diagnosis allows for timely treatment and management strategies.
- Preventative measures can be implemented to reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death in affected families.
Abstract:
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) may have sudden death as its first presentation. This case presentation describes a 25-year-old man with post-mortem finding of previously unknown left ventricular hypertrophy. Genetic analysis revealed a mutation in the myosin-binding protein C (MYBPC3). Autopsy combined with molecular genetic screening for mutations may give the relatives certainty of cause of death and the opportunity for genetic screening for diagnosis and treatment as well as prevention of sudden cardiac death.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy I: Introduction and Classification
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care
Cardiomyopathy IV: Restrictive Cardiomyopathy

