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Genomics of Fibromuscular Dysplasia
Silvia Di Monaco1,2, Adrien Georges3, Jean-Philippe Lengelé4,5
1Division of Cardiology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium. silvia.dimonaco@gmail.com.
Abstract:
Fibromuscular Dysplasia (FMD) is “an idiopathic, segmental, non-atherosclerotic and non-inflammatory disease of the musculature of arterial walls, leading to stenosis of small and medium-sized arteries” (Persu, et al; 2014). FMD can lead to hypertension, arterial dissections, subarachnoid haemorrhage, stroke or mesenteric ischemia. The pathophysiology of the disease remains elusive. While familial cases are rare (<5%) in contemporary FMD registries, there is evidence in favour of the existence of multiple genetic factors involved in this vascular disease. Recent collaborative efforts allowed the identification of a first genetic locus associated with FMD. This intronic variant located in the phosphatase and actin regulator 1 gene (PHACTR1) may influence the transcription activity of the endothelin-1 gene (EDN1) located nearby on chromosome 6. Interestingly, the PHACTR1 locus has also been involved in vascular hypertrophy in normal subjects, carotid dissection, migraine and coronary artery disease. National and international registries of FMD patients, with deep and harmonised phenotypic and genetic characterisation, are expected to be instrumental to improve our understanding of the genetic basis and pathophysiology of this intriguing vascular disease.
Insights
Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a rare vascular disease. A newly identified genetic variant in the PHACTR1 gene may contribute to FMD development, offering insights into its underlying causes.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is an idiopathic, non-atherosclerotic arterial disease affecting small to medium-sized arteries.
- FMD can lead to serious complications including hypertension, arterial dissection, stroke, and mesenteric ischemia.
- The precise pathophysiology and genetic underpinnings of FMD remain largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic factors contributing to Fibromuscular Dysplasia.
- To identify specific genetic loci associated with FMD susceptibility.
- To explore the potential role of identified genetic variants in FMD pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of genetic data from Fibromuscular Dysplasia patient cohorts.
- Identification and characterization of genetic variants associated with FMD.
- Investigating the functional impact of identified variants on nearby gene transcription.
Main Results:
- A significant genetic locus associated with FMD has been identified.
- An intronic variant within the PHACTR1 gene is linked to FMD.
- This PHACTR1 variant may affect the transcriptional activity of the nearby EDN1 gene.
Conclusions:
- The PHACTR1 gene is implicated in the genetic basis of Fibromuscular Dysplasia.
- The identified PHACTR1 variant represents a potential risk factor for FMD.
- Further research using large patient registries is crucial for understanding FMD genetics and pathophysiology.
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