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Renin-angiotensin system: genes to bedside
F S Malik1, C J Lavie, M R Mehra
1Department of Internal Medicine, Ochsner Medical Institutions, New Orleans, LA 70121, USA.
American Heart Journal
|November 5, 1997
Summary
Genetic variations in the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene are linked to increased cardiovascular disease risk. This ACE gene polymorphism may serve as a crucial genetic marker for conditions like atherosclerosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Atherosclerosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality.
- The Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) is implicated in atherosclerosis pathogenesis.
- Tissue-based RAS pathways are increasingly recognized as significant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene polymorphism and cardiovascular disease risk.
- To explore the role of ACE gene variations in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and its sequelae.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of genetic polymorphism in the human ACE gene.
- Review of clinical and animal data on RAS and angiotensin II.
- Correlation of ACE gene variants with cardiovascular events and conditions.
Main Results:
- A strong association exists between ACE gene polymorphism and increased risk for acute coronary events, sudden cardiac death, and restenosis after angioplasty.
- ACE gene polymorphism is linked to idiopathic and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
- Angiotensin II is identified as a final common pathway in RAS, with ACE as the key enzyme.
Conclusions:
- ACE gene polymorphism may modify cellular and free ACE levels.
- ACE gene variations represent a potential genetic marker for cardiovascular disease.
- Understanding ACE gene's role is crucial for predicting and managing atherosclerosis and related conditions.