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Characterising heart rhythm abnormalities associated with Xp22.31 deletion
Georgina Wren1, Emily Baker2,3, Jack Underwood3,4
1School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.
Genetic deletions at Xp22.31 increase the risk of abnormal heart rhythms (AHRs) in males with X-linked ichthyosis (XLI). Associated gastrointestinal and respiratory conditions were identified, suggesting targeted cardiac screening for deletion carriers.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Cardiology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Xp22.31 genetic deletions are linked to X-linked ichthyosis (XLI) and an increased risk of atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF) in males.
- AF poses significant risks for thrombosis, heart failure, stroke, and dementia.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the manifestation of abnormal heart rhythms (AHRs) in Xp22.31 deletion carriers.
- Identify risk factors, comorbidities, and candidate genes associated with AHRs in these individuals.
- Assess deletion carriers' attitudes towards cardiac screening.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of UK Biobank data for deletion carriers with AF.
- Online survey on AHRs in males with XLI and female carriers.
- Genetic screening for common variants in Xp22.31 associated with idiopathic AF.
Main Results:
- AHRs affect up to 35% of deletion carriers, with onset patterns varying and potential triggers including stress.
- Gastrointestinal conditions and asthma/anemia were significant comorbidities in male and female carriers, respectively.
- Genetic analysis revealed AF risk variants near *STS* in males and GI/asthma risk variants near *PNPLA4* in both sexes.
Conclusions:
- AHRs are frequently associated with Xp22.31 deletions, identifying specific subgroups for prioritized screening.
- Further research into cardiac function in deletion carriers and steroid sulfatase-deficient models is needed to understand AF pathophysiology.
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