Wnt's cardiovascular links

Researchers from Yale University and colleagues published in Science a rare defect in a gene that encodes a co-receptor in the Wnt signaling pathway, which may help explain the linkage between metabolic risk factors and coronary artery disease. While it is unlikely to be the only factor in metabolic syndrome and CAD, altered Wnt signaling - from genetic or environmental causes - may be one way that individuals could develop risk factors.

The mutation in the gene for low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6) was found in a family of Iranian descent with an extraordinary prevalence of early-onset CAD; elements of metabolic syndrome, including hyperlipidemia (especially high LDL), hypertension and diabetes; and osteoporosis...