Genetic and environmental effects on carotid flow velocities: An international twin study

摘要: Abstract Introduction Altered carotid blood flow velocities (CFV) have a complex background but the underlying genetic contribution is still unclear. We sought to evaluate influence of genetics, shared and unshared environmental components on individual differences CFV. Methods 193 healthy twin pairs, 126 monozygotic (MZ) 67 dizygotic (DZ) (mean age 53 ± 14 years) recruited in Italy, United States Hungary underwent bilateral color-coded Doppler assessment common artery (CCA) internal (ICA) order assess peak systolic (PSV) end diastolic (EDV) velocities. Means CFV values were used analysis. Results Age- country-adjusted intra-class correlations higher than pairs for mean PSV ICA indicating heritability 63%. Unique factors contributed 37% PSV. With regards EDV CCA, ICA, analysis indicated no discernible role components, while contributions ranged between 56% 63%, 44% adjusted country, respectively. Mean ICA/CCA ratio was driven by unique (82%) with modest (18%). Conclusions Our study showed that moderate, findings do not support other investigated values. Environmental effects account moderate major portion variance. These value early ultrasound screening as well prevention modifiable case altered