Abstract

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is an independent risk factor for morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular disease in men and women with hypertension and in asymptomatic subjects with normal blood pressure. In hypertensive patients it is a stronger coronary risk factor than casual blood pressure readings. Correlation between levels of high blood pressure, duration of hypertension and left ventricular mass is poor. Epidemiological studies suggest that left ventricular hypertrophy may be influenced by genetic factors. In our review we present study groups of genes contributing to the development of left ventricular hypertrophy: 1) genes that encode components of hormonal pathways, 2) genes of key sympathetic and parasympathetic receptors, 3) genes that modify intracellular ion homeostasis, 4) genes that modify energy metabolism, 5) genes that modify motor unit composition and regulation. Angiotensinogen gene, angiotensin-converting enzyme gene, angiotensin receptor type 1 gene, aldosterone synthase gene, nitric oxide synthase gene, type A natriuretic peptide receptor gene, beta(2)-adrenergic receptor gene, G-protein beta(3) subunit gene are associated with left ventricular hypertrophy.