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Evolutionary origin of cardiac malformations
1Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine,Baltimore, Maryland.
Journal of the American College of Cardiology
|October 1, 1988
Summary
Evolutionary origins of congenital heart defects are supported by similar malformations across mammals and birds. This suggests a shared genetic basis or external factor influencing heart development in diverse species.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Developmental biology
- Comparative anatomy
Background:
- Isolated cardiac malformations in humans share similarities with defects found in other placental mammals and birds.
- Previous research suggests an evolutionary basis for congenital heart defects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the evolutionary origins of isolated cardiac malformations.
- To explore the commonalities in heart defects across different species.
Main Methods:
- External gross examination of over 5,000 bird hearts over three years.
- Review of published reports on ectopic hearts in birds, cattle, and humans.
Main Results:
- Observed anomalies included duplicate hearts, absence of hearts, and an ectopic heart in a yellow-rumped warbler.
- Similarities in heritable heart defects across non-interbreeding species (mammals and birds) suggest a common origin or external factor.
- Evolutionary malformations are organ-specific anomalies, distinct from widespread injury caused by teratogens.
Conclusions:
- The presence of similar cardiac malformations in diverse species points to a common evolutionary origin or shared causative agent.
- Understanding this evolutionary perspective is crucial for counseling parents of children with congenital heart defects.