Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 14, 2026
06:08
Ultrasound Imaging of the Thoracic and Abdominal Aorta in Mice to Determine Aneurysm Dimensions
Published on: March 8, 2019
20.9K
Aortic root dimensions are predominantly determined by genetic factors: a classical twin study
Csilla Celeng1, Márton Kolossváry1, Attila Kovács1
1MTA-SE Cardiovascular Imaging Research Group, Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, Városmajor St. 68, H-1122, Budapest, Hungary.
European Radiology
|September 24, 2016
Summary
Computed tomography angiography (CTA) reveals aortic root dimensions are primarily genetic, unlike transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) findings. Imaging method significantly impacts heritability estimates for aortic dimensions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Imaging
- Genetics
- Twin Studies
Background:
- Previous studies using transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) indicated moderate heritability for aortic root dimensions.
- Computed tomography angiography (CTA) may offer more precise heritability estimates due to its superior accuracy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the heritability of aortic root dimensions using CTA.
- To compare CTA-derived heritability estimates with those obtained from TTE.
Main Methods:
- The BUDAPEST-GLOBAL study included 198 twin subjects (118 monozygotic, 80 dizygotic).
- Subjects underwent both CTA and TTE to measure the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT), annulus, sinus of Valsalva, sinotubular junction, and ascending aorta.
- Heritability was analyzed using the ACDE model (Additive genetic, Common environmental, Dominant genetic, Unique environmental factors).
Main Results:
- CTA revealed dominant additive genetic effects for all measured aortic dimensions (e.g., sinus of Valsalva: A=0.83, E=0.17).
- TTE measurements indicated moderate to no genetic influence (e.g., LVOT: A=0.38, E=0.62; annulus: C=0.47, E=0.53).
Conclusions:
- Aortic root dimensions are predominantly influenced by genetic factors, as shown by CTA.
- TTE underestimates the genetic contribution to aortic root dimensions.
- The choice of imaging modality significantly affects heritability estimates.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
776
Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
776
01:30Aneurysm I: Introduction
581
An aortic aneurysm is a localized outpouching or dilation at a weak point in the artery wall. It may involve different parts of the aorta, such as the abdominal aorta, aortic arch, or thoracic aorta.Etiological factorsSeveral disorders are associated with aortic aneurysms.Congenital causes, such as primary connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome, impact the integrity and strength of connective tissues, notably affecting the aorta. Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that specifically...
581
01:18Polygenic Traits
70.1K
When more than one gene is responsible for a given phenotype, the trait is considered polygenic. Human height is a polygenic trait. Studies have uncovered hundreds of loci that influence height, and there are believed to be many more. Due to the high number of genes involved, as well as environmental and nutritional factors, height varies significantly within a given population. The distribution of height forms a bell-shaped curve, with relatively few individuals in the population at the...
70.1K
01:18Polygenic Traits
11.3K
11.3K
01:15Thoracic Aorta
2.1K
The thoracic section of the aorta begins at the T5 vertebra and extends to the T12 level at the diaphragm, initially progressing through the mediastinum to the left of the spinal column. Throughout its course in the thoracic segment, the thoracic aorta emits various offshoots known collectively as visceral and parietal branches. The branches that predominantly supply blood to visceral organs are termed visceral branches and include bronchial, pericardial, esophageal, and mediastinal arteries,...
2.1K
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
480
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
480