Research Reveals Genetic Link Between Heart Disease and Depression
A study conducted by experts at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Massachusetts General Hospital in the United States has found a genetic connection between coronary artery disease and major depression that may influence the development of cardiomyopathy, a disease that affects the cardiac muscle.
Possible Treatments to Reduce the Risk of Cardiomyopathy
The report, published in the journal Nature Mental Health, raises the possibility that combining medications prescribed to treat coronary heart disease and depression could decrease inflammation and prevent the onset of cardiomyopathy in patients with a genetic predisposition.
Inflammation and Cardiovascular Diseases
Dr. Lea Davis, senior author of the study and professor of Medicine in the Division of Genetic Medicine and Genetics Institute at Vanderbilt, highlights that chronic low-level inflammation may play a crucial role in both depression and cardiovascular disease, noting a possible relationship between both conditions.
Genes Involved in the Relationship between Depression and Coronary Heart Disease
The researchers identified 185 genes associated with both depression and coronary artery disease, related to biological functions in inflammation and cardiomyopathy. This genetic association could predispose individuals with depression and coronary heart disease to develop cardiomyopathy.
Potential Treatments and Prevention of Cardiomyopathy
The study suggests that drugs used to treat coronary heart disease and depression could be key to reducing the risk of cardiomyopathy by reducing inflammation. More research is needed to better understand ideal treatment mechanisms.
In summary, the research highlights the importance of jointly addressing cardiovascular and mental health in treatment plans for patients with depression and cardiovascular disease, with the goal of preventing future cardiac complications.
