Genetic variations in genes associated with inflammation and predisposition for altered biomarker profiles

Atherosclerosis is one of the underlying factors for cardiovascular diseases and is characterized by chronic inflammatory processes in the atherosclerotic lesions. Genetic variations in genes associated with altered biomarker profiles is very complex and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been utilized to identify chromosomal risk areas for cardiovascular disease. Several genes associated to hypercholesterolemia, high blood pressure, cardiomyopathy and inflammation have been associated with altered biomarker profiles.

In the project, candidate genes are studied in relation to physiological and clinical markers for the development of cardiovascular disease.