Genetic determination of the prognosis in survivors of acute coronary syndromes. Study design and rationale for a multicenter study
Abstract
Powerful predictors have already been established for clinical complications ensuing from acute coronary events. Despite this, substantial differences exist between patients at apparently similar risk.
Amongst the most frequently discussed newer predictors of clinical events are genes and their interactions. Identification of disadvantageous variants of candidate genes could help to detect the patients suitable for more consistent follow-up and the best possible treatment.
The two main aims of this study are, first, identification of the particular alleles and genotypes responsible for acute coronary events in a large population of Czech patients in a cross-sectional study and, second, determination of the effect of these alleles on clinical outcomes in a prospective study. A total of 2,500 patients with acute coronary syndromes from 5 coronary care units based in Prague are to be recruited.
A control group is to comprise a representative 1% population sample of 2,600 individuals. The polymorphisms of the following most frequently discussed single genes are to be studied: the connexin 37 gene, stromelysin-1 gene, plasminogen activator-inhibitor type 1 gene, and the lymphotoxin-alpha gene.