Genetic Insights into Peripheral Artery Disease: A Narrative Review

TL;DR

This review summarizes genetic factors and pathways involved in peripheral artery disease, aiming to improve understanding and treatment.

Contribution

The paper systematically reviews genetic variants and KEGG pathways linked to peripheral artery disease progression and outcomes.

Findings

Genetic variants are associated with plaque initiation, progression, and rupture in peripheral artery disease.

KEGG pathways are identified as involved in the pathological processes of PAD-related genes.

Transcriptomic studies in PAD patient biopsies reveal functional impacts of genetic variants.

Abstract

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a complex, multifactorial atherosclerotic disease that primarily affects the arteries supplying the lower extremities, causing significant occlusion and reduced blood flow. Several studies have found an association between PAD and both genetic and environmental factors, which play a key role in the disease’s pathophysiology. Therefore, in this review, we describe the main genetic variants associated with plaque initiation, progression, and rupture in PAD. Furthermore, we identify different KEGG pathways involved in the pathological processes of these genes. We also describe gene expressions or transcriptomic studies, particularly in biopsies from patients with PAD. These findings could help identify the functional impact of genetic variants on the disease phenotype and, consequently, allow for the development of appropriate interventions that improve patient prognoses.

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