Variations of the proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 gene in coronary artery disease

Objective Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the principal cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Studies have provided controversial results regarding whether variations in the proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 gene (PCSK9) are risk factors for CAD. In this study, we evaluated the risk factors associated with PSCK9genotypes and CAD in the Taiwanese population.Methods A total of 501 patients diagnosed with CAD by angiography and 334 CAD-free controls were recruited. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms of PSCK9(rs505151 and rs529787) were genotyped.Results The prevalence of a positive family history for CAD was significantly higher in individuals carrying the AG + GG genotype of the PSCK9rs505151 polymorphism. Among CAD patients with a positive family history, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus was significantly higher in those carrying the AG + GG genotype of the PSCK9rs505151 polymorphism (73.3%) than in those carrying the AA genotype (39.2%).Conclusion In CAD patients, the AG genotype of PSCK9rs505151 is associated with diabetes and a positive family history of CAD.