Monday Feb 13, 2012
Podcast 145: The Y chromosome and the possible role of a common variant in coronary disease in men.
Haplogroups — who knew? Ancient variations in the Y chromosome form what’s known as haplogroups, and haplogroup I is common in Europe, particularly so in northern Europe. Researchers find that “I” is an independent risk factor for coronary artery disease in men, carried as it is on the male-only Y chromosome.
Listen in as we talk ancient genetics and what it all could mean for a range of immune-system-related diseases. There’s plenty of work to be done, but we thought you ought to know about this earlier rather than later.
Links:
- Physician’s First Watch coverage (free)
- Lancet abstract (free)