Genetic network identifies novel pathways contributing to atherosclerosis susceptibility in the innominate artery.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Atherosclerosis, the underlying cause of cardiovascular disease, results from both genetic and environmental factors.

Methods

In the current study we take a systems-based approach using weighted gene co-expression analysis to identify a candidate pathway of genes related to atherosclerosis. Bioinformatic analyses are performed to identify candidate genes and interactions and several novel genes are characterized using in-vitro studies.

Results

We identify 1 coexpression module associated with innominate artery atherosclerosis that is also enriched for inflammatory and macrophage gene signatures. Using a series of bioinformatics analysis, we further prioritize the genes in this pathway and identify Cd44 as a critical mediator of the atherosclerosis. We valid

SUBMITTER: Albright J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4142055 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature