Recent publications on Residual Risk

Emerging evidence shows that loss-of-function mutations in the gene encoding apolipoprotein CIII (APOC3), are associated with a decrease in plasma triglycerides levels and clinical benefit in patients at high cardiovascular risk. This study provides molecular evidence for this association. The authors identified a common APOC3 variant (rs4225) in the microRNA-binding site (miR-4271 binding) which affects its expression and the risk of coronary heart disease. The T allele but not the G allele of this variant suppressed APOC3 by facilitating miR-4271 binding. Furthermore, individuals with the TT genotype not only had lower plasma triglycerides than those with the GG allele (p=0.03), but also evidence from a case-control study suggested that the TT genotype was associated with 11% (2-23%) reduction in coronary heart disease risk [p?=?0.009]. These findings add to accumulating evidence for apolipoprotein CIII or APOC3 as a potential therapeutic targets.