Is hypertension genetic?

Introduction

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common and complex condition that significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Understanding the genetic basis of hypertension is crucial for developing targeted treatments and preventive measures. Recent research has provided insights into the genetic factors contributing to hypertension, although the condition's multifactorial nature makes it challenging to pinpoint specific genetic causes.

Key Insights

Genetic Heritability and Complexity:
- Hypertension is a complex genetic disorder with heritability estimates ranging from 30% to 50% .
- The condition results from the interplay between multiple genes and environmental factors, making it difficult to identify specific genetic causes .
Monogenic Forms of Hypertension:
- Specific genetic mutations have been identified in monogenic forms of hypertension, such as Liddle's syndrome and glucocorticoid-remediable aldosteronism .
- These forms of hypertension are linked to mutations affecting renal sodium handling and steroid hormone metabolism .
Candidate Genes and Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS):
- Genome-wide association studies have identified numerous genetic variants associated with blood pressure regulation and hypertension .
- Candidate genes, such as those involved in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, have been implicated in blood pressure regulation and hypertension .
Intermediate Phenotypes and Genetic Markers:
- Studies using intermediate phenotypes suggest that hypertension is heterogeneous, with subgroups related to specific genetic polymorphisms .
- Genetic markers are being developed to predict responses to antihypertensive drugs, potentially leading to personalized treatment approaches .
Challenges in Genetic Research:
- The identification of genetic determinants of hypertension has been less successful compared to other diseases due to the condition's complexity and the influence of environmental factors .
- There is a need for more precise patient stratification and dense mapping of candidate genes to improve genotype-phenotype correlations .

Conclusion

Hypertension has a significant genetic component, with heritability estimates suggesting that 30% to 50% of blood pressure variation can be attributed to genetic factors. While specific genetic mutations have been identified in monogenic forms of hypertension, the genetic basis of common essential hypertension remains complex and multifactorial. Advances in genome-wide association studies and the identification of candidate genes are enhancing our understanding of hypertension's genetic architecture. However, the interplay between genetic and environmental factors continues to pose challenges in pinpointing specific genetic causes and developing personalized treatments.

Is hypertension genetic?

Summary

Consensus Meter

Introduction

Key Insights

Conclusion

Sources and full results

The genetics of hypertension.

Genetic research has identified key genes responsible for hypertension and its complications, including glucocorticoid-remediable aldosteronism and Liddle's syndrome, and identified new candidate genes through genome scanning and model organism assays.

Genetics of human hypertension

Hypertension is a complex genetic disorder caused by interplay between several "risk" genes and environmental factors, with potential for more-specific therapeutic and preventative measures.

Genetic Basis of Blood Pressure and Hypertension

Current understanding of the genetic architecture of blood pressure and hypertension has improved due to genome-wide association studies, with potential for future clinical applications.

The genetics of human hypertension.

Human hypertension is a complex disease with genetic variations associated with monogenic forms and glucocorticoid-remediable hypertension, but no conclusive genotype has been linked to essential hypertension.

Genes for blood pressure: an opportunity to understand hypertension.

43 genetic variants identified in a genome-wide analysis may lead to improved understanding of blood pressure pathophysiology and the identification of new targets for drug therapy.

Genetics and Hypertension

Specific genes have recently been identified for hypertension, which may impact clinical practice and advance our understanding of common human diseases.

Genetic screening in arterial hypertension

Genetic testing in arterial hypertension shows promise for personalized medicine, enabling more precise drug response predictions and reducing costs and time in drug development.

Can the genetic factors influence the treatment of systemic hypertension? The case of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.

Genetic factors, such as the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, may influence the treatment of systemic hypertension, with 30% of blood pressure variance attributed to genetic factors.

Genetic basis of hypertension.

The angiotensinogen gene is involved in primary hypertension and shares a common genetic susceptibility factor with preeclampsia, suggesting a shared genetic susceptibility factor.

Genetic determinants of blood pressure regulation

Genetic variations play a significant role in hypertension development, but specific causes remain unclear and clinical applications of genotypic information in diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment remain limited.

Try another search