A comprehensive multi-layered analysis reveals genetic pleiotropy underlying coronary artery calcification and bone mineral density.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Subclinical atherosclerosis and osteoporosis are often present together in the same individual, but their common mechanisms remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the pleiotropic relationship underlying coronary artery calcification (CAC) and estimated calcaneal bone mineral density (eBMD), providing molecular insights into their observed phenotypic associations.

Methods

Genetic correlation between CAC and eBMD was estimated based on genome-wide summary statistics. Shared loci were examined at the levels of single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), multi-SNP, and gene expressions to provide insights into genetic pleiotropy. Sensitivity analyses using data of DXA-derived BMD at femoral neck and lumbar spine were performed to validate key findings. Pathway enric

SUBMITTER: Han T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12928696 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature