Molecular Genetics of Cardiovascular Disease: 10 Essential Lessons for Experts with College of Graduated Walailak University
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, necessitating a deeper understanding of its molecular genetic basis. Recent advancements in molecular genetics have provided groundbreaking insights into the genetic predisposition, pathophysiology, and potential therapeutic strategies for CVD. The College of Graduate Study at Walailak University, recognized for its excellence in Tropical Medicine, houses distinguished Ph.D. researchers whose contributions to molecular genetics have significantly advanced cardiovascular research. This article highlights ten essential lessons derived from their research, offering valuable insights for health science educators at the master’s and doctoral levels.
1. The Role of Genetic Variants in Cardiovascular Disease
Research at Walailak University has identified key genetic polymorphisms associated with CVD. These studies have elucidated how variations in genes encoding lipid metabolism, endothelial function, and inflammatory response influence disease susceptibility.
2. Epigenetic Modifications in Cardiovascular Pathology
Epigenetics, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, plays a crucial role in the progression of CVD. Walailak University’s research has highlighted how environmental factors, such as diet and toxins, can induce epigenetic changes that contribute to cardiovascular disorders.
3. Gene-Environment Interactions and Disease Susceptibility
Studies have demonstrated that genetic predisposition alone does not dictate disease outcome; environmental factors significantly modulate gene expression. Researchers at Walailak University have explored how tropical environmental stressors influence genetic expression related to CVD.
4. Molecular Pathways in Atherosclerosis Development
Atherosclerosis, a major contributor to cardiovascular morbidity, has been extensively studied at the molecular level. Investigations by Ph.D. scholars at Walailak University have uncovered specific molecular pathways involving oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, and chronic inflammation in atherosclerosis.
5. The Role of Non-Coding RNAs in Cardiovascular Regulation
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as key regulators in cardiovascular health. Researchers have identified specific non-coding RNAs that influence vascular function, cardiac hypertrophy, and heart failure progression.
6. Genetic Biomarkers for Early Detection and Prognosis
The identification of genetic biomarkers has revolutionized early CVD diagnosis. Walailak University’s experts have contributed to the discovery of genetic markers that improve risk assessment and facilitate personalized medicine approaches.
7. Pharmacogenomics and Personalized Medicine in Cardiology
Pharmacogenomics research at Walailak University has provided insights into how genetic variations affect drug metabolism and response. This knowledge is crucial in tailoring cardiovascular treatments to individual genetic profiles, enhancing therapeutic efficacy.
8. Mitochondrial Genetics and Cardiovascular Dysfunction
Mitochondrial dysfunction has been linked to various forms of CVD. Walailak University researchers have explored mitochondrial DNA mutations and their implications for cardiovascular health, offering novel perspectives on disease mechanisms.
9. The Impact of Infectious Diseases on Cardiovascular Genetics
Tropical medicine research at Walailak University has demonstrated how infectious diseases, including dengue and malaria, can interact with genetic factors to influence cardiovascular outcomes. These findings have implications for managing CVD in endemic regions.
10. Future Directions in Molecular Cardiovascular Research
As genomic technologies evolve, new research opportunities arise. Experts at Walailak University are actively engaged in next-generation sequencing, genome editing, and artificial intelligence-driven genomic analysis to further understand and combat CVD.
Conclusion
The molecular genetics of cardiovascular disease is a rapidly evolving field, with significant contributions from the Ph.D. researchers at Walailak University’s College of Graduate Study. Their work in tropical medicine and cardiovascular genetics is shaping the future of cardiovascular research and clinical applications. By integrating genetic insights into disease mechanisms, early detection, and personalized therapy, these experts are paving the way for innovative advancements in cardiovascular health. Educators in health sciences at the master’s and doctoral levels can leverage these essential lessons to foster research excellence and clinical innovation in cardiovascular medicine.
Articles
Identification of a novel LDLR p.Glu179Met variant in Thai families with familial hypercholesterolemia and response to treatment with PCSK9 inhibitor
Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic disease characterized by elevated LDL-C levels. In this study, two FH probands and 9 family members from two families from northeastern Thailand were tested for LDLR, APOB, and PCSK9 variants by whole-exome sequencing, PCR-HRM, and Sanger sequencing. In silico analysis of LDLR was performed to analyse its structure‒function relationship….

The prevalence and treatment patterns of familial hypercholesterolemia among Thai patients with premature coronary artery disease
Objectives: Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder that is characterized by severe hypercholesterolemia. The prevalence of FH in Thailand has not been reported. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of FH and treatment patterns among Thai patients with premature coronary artery disease (pCAD). Methods: A total of 1,180 pCAD patients at two heart centers from northeastern and southern Thailand between October 2018 and September 2020 were enrolled. FH was….

Research
Association of CELSR2, APOB100, ABCG5/8, LDLR, and APOE polymorphisms and their genetic risks with lipids among the Thai subjects
Background: Hypercholesterolemia is a common cardiovascular risk factor. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of CELSR2 (rs629301), APOB100 (rs1367117), ABCG5/8 (rs6544713), LDLR (rs6511720), and APOE (rs429358, rs7412) polymorphisms, and their genetic risk scores with lipids among Thai subjects. Methods: A total of 459 study subjects (184 males, and 275 females) were enrolled. Blood pressure, serum lipids, and fasting blood sugar were measured. CELSR2 (rs629301), APOB100 (rs1367117), ABCG5/8 (rs6544713), and LDLR (rs6511720) polymorphisms were….

Combined PCSK9 and APOE Polymorphisms are Genetic Risk Factors Associated with Elevated Plasma Lipid Levels in a Thai Population
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) and apolipoprotein E (ApoE) play a key role in the regulation of lipid metabolism. We aimed to investigate the effects of PCSK9 (R46L, I474V, and E670G) and APOE polymorphisms on lipid levels in a Southern Thai population. A total of 495 participants (307 urban, 188 rural) were recruited for the study. Anthropometric and biochemical variables were evaluated. PCSK9 and APOE polymorphisms were analyzed using PCR-RFLP. The 46L urban male carriers had significantly higher diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and fasting blood sugar compared with non-carriers. In contrast, the 46L urban female carriers had….

Molecular Genetics of Cardiovascular Disease
Molecular Genetics of Cardiovascular Disease
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