DNA methylation and coronary artery disease: Brief summary of the main findings

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and more specifically coronary artery disease (CAD) continue to be the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Many genetic factors have been identified to contribute to the risk of developing CAD. However, the etiology and pathophysiology of complex diseases such as CAD are driven not only by genetic factors but also by the interaction between genetic and environmental factors. Therefore, researchers are now exploring the epigenome, a biological interface at which genetics and the environment can interact. DNA methylation is the main epigenetic form of gene regulation, and it is increasingly recognized to play an important role in cardiovascular disease. Thus, we aim in this short review to summarize the main recent studies on the eventual contribution of DNA methylation status in the onset of CAD.