Blocking a Gene may Prevent Cardiovascular and Pancreatic Diseases

Hypertriglyceridemia is a condition in which triglyceride levels in the blood are elevated. It is often associated with frequent health issues, such as obesity or diabetes. This condition is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). A new study suggests that blocking the expression of a gene may help prevent illnesses linked to excessive fat in blood such as cardiovascular and pancreatic diseases. The concerned gene codes for the apoC-III protein. The research team found that shutting down the expression of this gene decreases in blood the concentration of triglycerides, even in various severe forms of hypertriglyceridemia.

First author of the study Daniel Gaudet from University of Montreal in Canada said, "Our study suggests that the protein apoC-III plays a key role in the management of triglycerides. Triglycerides, like cholesterol, are lipids. Depending on the cause, the accumulation of triglycerides in blood is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular and pancreatic illnesses, and other complications. Our conclusions are promising in terms of the prevention of the risk associated with the accumulation of fat in blood."

The research is published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Source-IANS