|
Heart Disease In The News Genetic mutation protects against restenosis Investigators have discovered that certain mutations in the gene for a protein called Factor VII can significantly reduce the risk of restenosis after angioplasty. Factor VII is one of the coagulation factors present in the bloodstream that is responsible for normal blood clotting. Certain mutations in the gene for Factor VII reduce the activity of this clotting factor. Patients who have these mutations were found to have a whopping 72% reduction in the rate of restenosis following angioplasty. With this new information, researchers can begin to develop drugs that will reduce Factor VII activity similar to the gene mutations. Such drugs may prove effective in reducing the incidence of restenosis. |
What do you think? Enter the Heart Disease Forum:
