A new multi-national study has revealed that the shape of the heart is influenced in part by genetics and may help predict the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Researchers from Queen Mary University of London, King's College London, University of Zaragoza and University College London, as well as Complexo Hospitalario Universitario A Coruña are first to examine the genetic basis of the heart's left and right ventricles using advanced 3D imaging and machine learning. Prior research primarily focused on the heart's size and volume and specific chambers.
By studying both ventricles together, the team was able to capture the more intricate, multi-dimensional aspects of the heart shape. This new approach of exploring shape has led to the discovery of new heart-associated genes and provided a better understanding of the biological pathways linking heart shape to cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is among the leading causes of death in the UK and globally.
The findings of this study could change how cardiac disease risk is evaluated. Genetic information related to heart shape can provide a risk score for heart disease, offering potentially early and more tailored assessment in clinical settings. This study provides new information on how we think about heart disease risk.
We've long known that size and volume of the heart matter, but by examining shape, we're uncovering new insights into genetic risks. This discovery could provide valuable additional tools for clinici.