Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 2, 2026

Investigating the Pathogenesis of MYH7 Mutation Gly823Glu in Familial Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy using a Mouse Model
Published on: August 8, 2022
Molecular biology of heart disease
1Robert Roberts, Ruddy Canadian Cardiovascular Genetics Centre, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, 40 Ruskin Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Y 4W7, Canada. rroberts@ottawaheart.ca
Insights
Dr. Robert Roberts pioneered molecular cardiology, identifying over 20 genes for cardiovascular disorders. His work led to the first genetic variant for coronary artery disease (CAD) and 13 novel CAD genes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Genetics
- Molecular Cardiology
- Genetics of Cardiomyopathies
Background:
- Dr. Roberts' early work in cardiac enzymology led to the MBCK test, a standard for myocardial infarction diagnosis for over 30 years.
- He transitioned to molecular biology and genetics of cardiomyopathies in the late 1970s.
- He is recognized as a founder of molecular cardiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify genes predisposing to coronary artery disease (CAD) and myocardial infarction.
- To advance the understanding of genetic factors in cardiovascular disorders.
Main Methods:
- Genome-wide association studies (GWAS).
- Gene sequencing and identification.
- Collaborative research with international consortia like CARDIoGRAM.
Main Results:
- Identified and sequenced over 20 genes responsible for cardiovascular disorders.
- Discovered the first genetic variant for CAD, 9p21.
- In collaboration, identified 13 novel genes associated with CAD.
Conclusions:
- Dr. Roberts' research has significantly advanced the field of cardiovascular genetics.
- His work has identified key genetic contributors to CAD and myocardial infarction.
- The identified genes provide targets for future research and potential therapeutic strategies.
Abstract:
Dr. Robert Roberts is currently Professor of Medicine and Director of the Ruddy Canadian Cardiovascular Genetics Centre along with being President and CEO of the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. Prior to this appointment, he was Chief of Cardiology for 23 years at Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas. His original research was in cardiac enzymology which led to the development of the MBCK test which was the standard diagnostic assay for myocardial infarction for more than 3 decades. In the late 1970s, his research interests switched to molecular biology and the genetics of cardiomyopathies. He is regarded as one of the founders of molecular cardiology and has identified and sequenced more than 20 genes responsible for cardiovascular disorders. In the past 6 years, he has pursued genome-wide association studies to identify genes predisposing to coronary artery disease (CAD) and myocardial infarction. The first genetic variant for CAD, 9p21, was identified by Dr. Robert's laboratory and, in collaboration with the international consortium, CARDIoGRAM, has identified 13 novel genes for CAD.
Related Concept Videos
Coronary Artery Disease II: Pathophysiology
Heart Failure II: Pathophysiology
Pathophysiology of Heart Failure
Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction
Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System I: Cardiac Biomarkers
The essential diagnostic tools for detecting myocardial necrosis and monitoring individuals suspected of having acute coronary syndrome (ACS) include:
Troponins
Troponins, particularly cardiac troponins I and T, are the most precise and sensitive markers of myocardial injury. They are detectable within 4-6 hours of myocardial injury and remain...
Cardiomyopathy I: Introduction and Classification