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Genetics of vasovagal syncope
Karl Martin Klein1, Samuel F Berkovic2
1Epilepsy Center Hessen, Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Giessen & Marburg, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany.
Genetic factors significantly contribute to vasovagal syncope (VVS), a common condition affecting many. While most cases involve complex inheritance, some families show autosomal dominant patterns, indicating a genetic basis for VVS.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Cardiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Vasovagal syncope (VVS) is the most common cause of syncope, impacting approximately 25% of the population.
- The genetic underpinnings of VVS have been a subject of ongoing research and debate.
- This review synthesizes current evidence supporting a substantial genetic contribution to VVS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and discuss the evidence for a significant genetic component in vasovagal syncope.
- To explore the modes of inheritance observed in VVS families.
- To highlight the current state of molecular genetic studies in VVS.
Main Methods:
- Review of family aggregation and twin studies to assess genetic heritability.
- Analysis of family history data from affected individuals and their relatives.
- Examination of findings from candidate gene association studies and linkage analysis.
Main Results:
- Family aggregation and twin studies demonstrate higher concordance rates for VVS in monozygous twins compared to dizygous twins.
- Most VVS cases appear to follow complex inheritance patterns, but rare families exhibit autosomal dominant inheritance.
- A specific locus for VVS has been identified on chromosome 15q26 in an autosomal dominant family, though the causative gene remains unknown.
Conclusions:
- Genetic factors are confirmed to play a role in the etiology of vasovagal syncope.
- While complex inheritance is most common, autosomal dominant inheritance is observed less frequently.
- Identifying the specific genes involved in VVS is crucial for advancing our understanding of its pathophysiology and developing novel therapeutic strategies.
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