New genes linked to hypertension

An international team of researchers has uncovered more than 20 new genetic factors that can raise the risk of developing high blood pressure.

Scientists from 24 countries studied more than 275,000 people to locate the genetic variations linked to high or low blood pressure in the DNA.

The results, published in Nature and Nature Genetics showed that common genetic factors in 28 regions of DNA including 16 new points are associated with blood pressure in humans.

Findings also showed that each genetic variant was present in at least 5 percent of people, while some of the more common ones were present in up to 14 percent.

Scientists then integrated the effects of genetic variation in each of the 28 gene areas and found that they affect hypertension, stroke, coronary heart disease and structural alterations in the heart.

The more of these variants an individual had, the greater was the risk of hypertension, left ventricular wall thickness, stroke and coronary artery disease, scientists said.

The new genetic finding, however, seems to be very important and influential when considered across the population.

The study also helps scientists get a better understanding of high blood pressure leading to more effective treatments and early screening.

Source: presstv.ir