May 26, 2013

A new gene associated with a form of congenital heart disease in new born babies known as 'a hole in the heart' has been discovered by researchers funded by us.

Scientists from across the world, led by BHF Professor of Cardiology Bernard Keavney, have analysed the genes of over 2,000 people with congenital heart disease to find specific genes linked to the condition.

Congenital heart disease affects about 1 in every 145 births. The researchers found a particular gene closely associated with one of the most common forms an atrial septal defect where there is a 'hole' between the atria, the two chambers at the top of the heart.

Dr Shannon Amoils, our Senior Research Advisor, said: Weve made great strides in treating congenital heart disease; most babies born with a heart defect have a much brighter future now than they would have had in the 1960s when the BHF was founded. But we still need to fund much more research like this, to better understand the fundamental causes of congenital heart defects.

These important results show how large collaborative studies are incredibly useful for uncovering the influence of our genes on congenital heart disease. As researchers continue to identify other associated genes, we will be able to better predict the chances of children being born with heart problems, and will also learn more about the underlying processes that can go wrong in the developing heart.

Breakthroughs like this are made possible thanks to our supporters.Donate today tohelp us continue the fight for every heartbeat.

The discovery was published in the journal Nature Genetics.

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New gene discovery

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