Genomics

Abstract

Genomics is the study of entire genomes and is now possible owing to the completion of the Human Genome Project. Genomic techniques are rapidly being exploited to discover susceptibility genes and to better understand the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases, both rare, Mendelian disorders, such as hypertrophic car-diomyopathy, and common complex disorders, such as myocardial infarction and atrial fibrillation. At present, the management of Mendelian disorders and of heritable complex disorders is grounded in a detailed family history and careful examination for signs and symptoms. Althought the application of genetic and genomic testing is limited in current clinical practice, a number of potential applications are anticipated in the nearterm future. © 2006 Humana Press Inc.