Challenges of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Based on Human Genome Information

Hayato Tada1, Soichiro Usui1, Kenji Sakata1

  • 1Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences.

Insights

Precision medicine integrates genetic insights with traditional risk factors for conditions like atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Comprehensive genetic analysis, from rare to common variations, is crucial for effective personalized treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Cardiology
  • Personalized Medicine

Background:

  • Precision medicine is increasingly important, with evidence based on classical risk factors like hypertension and diabetes.
  • Classical risk factors often indicate established disease, limiting early intervention.
  • Genetic background, particularly for heritable traits like atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), is crucial for personalized approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the importance of integrating genetic information into precision medicine for ASCVD.
  • To discuss current methods for implementing genetic-based precision medicine.
  • To advocate for comprehensive genetic analyses in clinical practice.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current research on precision medicine for ASCVD.
  • Examination of genetic approaches including rare variants and polygenic risk scores.
  • Emphasis on the synergy between clinical and genetic diagnoses.

Main Results:

  • Human genome information is strongly associated with ASCVD risk.
  • Two primary genetic strategies are being explored: rare variants with large effects and polygenic risk scores from common variants.
  • Clinical and genetic diagnoses are both essential for effective precision medicine.

Conclusions:

  • Precision medicine for ASCVD requires a holistic approach, combining traditional risk factors with genetic data.
  • Comprehensive genetic analysis, covering both rare and common variations, is vital for personalized ASCVD management.
  • Integrating genetic insights enables earlier and more effective interventions in precision medicine.

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