TREML4 polymorphisms increase the mRNA in blood leukocytes in the progression of atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Genetics
• Cardiovascular Medicine

Background:

• Members of the triggering receptor expressed in myeloid cell (TREM) family, including TREML4, are implicated in atherosclerosis risk and progression.
• Existing research suggests associations between TREM family members and coronary artery disease, acute coronary syndrome, and coronary artery calcification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between TREML4 gene expression, its polymorphisms (rs2803495 and rs280396), and subclinical atherosclerosis or heart failure post-myocardial infarction (MI).
• This study is the first to examine TREML4 variants and expression in these specific patient cohorts.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of TREML4 variants (rs2803495 A>G and rs280396 T>C) and leukocyte mRNA expression using quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR).
• Study population included patients with subclinical atherosclerosis (n=340) and heart failure post-MI (n=68).

Main Results:

• The G allele of rs2803495 was significantly associated with TREML4 expression (OR 8.01, p<0.001).
• Patients with the C minor allele of rs280396 (TC/CC genotypes) showed higher TREML4 expression compared to those without the C allele (OR 10.42, p<0.001 for likelihood; OR 4.88, p<0.001 for expression levels).
• TREML4 was not associated with early atherosclerotic plaque formation or later stages post-MI.

Conclusions:

• TREML4 mRNA expression in blood leukocytes is influenced by minor alleles of polymorphisms rs2803495 and rs280396.
• TREML4 expression may play a role in atherosclerosis progression, but not in asymptomatic disease or the post-MI phase.