Cardiologists identify a new gene linked to Cardiac Arrest

Researchers at the University of Pittsburg School of Medecine, under the leadership of Barry London, MD-PhD, have identified a new gene, GPD1-L, responsible for a particular form of cardiac arrest called Brugada syndrome. This syndrome is an inherited form of arrythmia (irregular heart beating) that is most common in young men. It easily leads to sudden cardiac arrest in people without underlying cardiac disease. In 20% of cases with Brugada syndrome, mutations in the heart's sodium ion channels cause decreased ion flow, which ultimately results in less heart beats in some parts of the heart.
In the study conducted, the researchers found that the GPD1-L gene, on chromosome 3p24, is a trafficking gene that allows the sodium ion channel to find its way to the cell membrane. Mutations can interfere with this trafficking. Some oxidative stresses, such as pollution, smoking and stress, could also influence the function of the gene and its product.
Though it was identified 15 years ago, Brugada syndrome is still not well understood. Implantable cardiac defribillators (ICDs), which are able to correct ventricular fibrillation by providing shocks to the heart, are currently our best way of dealing with sudden arrythmias.


http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/10/071031114325.htm