The Role of Genetics in Managing Peripheral Arterial Disease

Abstract

Genome wide association studies (GWAS) have allowed for a rapid increase in our understanding of the underlying genetics and biology of many diseases. By capitalizing on common genetic variation between individuals, GWAS can identify DNA variants associated with diseases of interest. A variety of statistical methods can be applied to GWAS results which allows for risk factor identification, stratification, and to identify potential treatments. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common vascular disease that has been shown to have a strong genetic component. This article provides a review of the modern literature and our current understanding of the role of genetics in PAD. The largest available GWAS on PAD has identified 19 genome wide significant loci, with factor V Leiden and genes responsible for circulating lipoproteins being implicated in the development of PAD. Mendelian randomization studies have identified risk factors and causal associations with smoking, diabetes, and obesity and many other traits; protein-based MR has also identified circulating lipid and clotting factor levels associated with the incidence of PAD. Polygenic risk scores may allow for improved prediction of disease incidence and allow for early identification of at-risk patients but more work needs to be done to validate this approach. Genetic epidemiology has allowed for an increased understanding of PAD in the past decade. Genome-wide association studies have led to improved detection of genetic contributions to PAD, and further genetic analyses have validated risk factors and may provide options for improved screening in at-risk populations. Ongoing biobank studies of CLTI patients and the increasing ancestral diversity in biobank enrollment will allow for even further exploration into the pathogenesis and progression of PAD.