Understanding the Genetic Basis of Atherosclerosis and Peripheral Arterial Disease
Understanding the Genetic Basis of Atherosclerosis and Peripheral Arterial Disease
Atherosclerosis, a condition in which fatty deposits build up along the inner walls of
 arteries, can occur throughout the body. The purpose of this study is to examine the possible
 genetic differences that may influence where atherosclerosis occurs.
Plaque build-up caused by atherosclerosis increases the risk of blood clots, heart attack,
 and stroke. Blockages of plaque can occur in different areas of the body. PAD, a circulatory
 disorder in which blockages occur in the peripheral arteries, is one manifestation of
 atherosclerosis. Individuals with PAD experience reduced blood flow to the legs, which may
 cause leg pain while walking. Coronary artery disease (CAD), in which plaque builds up in
 arteries leading to the heart, is another atherosclerosis-related condition. Individuals with
 PAD and CAD have similar atherosclerosis risk factors, but it remains unknown why some
 individuals develop one disease and not the other. Genetic differences may influence where
 atherosclerosis develops. The goal of the study is to identify genetic variations that may
 cause inherited differences in plaque distribution.

 This study will enroll individuals with PAD who have been referred by their doctor for a
 coronary angiogram to confirm the presence of CAD. A control group composed of individuals
 who do not have PAD, but have similar risk factors for atherosclerosis, will also be
 enrolled. All participants will attend one study visit. They will undergo a coronary
 angiogram, a procedure in which a special dye is inserted intravenously into an artery of the
 heart. X-rays will be taken to document how blood flows through the artery. Questionnaires
 assessing quality of life, exercise habits, tobacco exposure, and family medical history will
 be completed. Participants will also undergo blood pressure measurements and blood collection
 for genetic analysis. Yearly follow-up phone calls will occur for 5 years to document any
 hospitalizations.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Hemodynamically significant PAD, as documented by an ankle-brachial index less than
 0.9; control group participants will not have PAD

 -  Received a referral for an elective coronary angiogram

 -  Suspected CAD

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  History of radiation treatment

 -  History of organ transplant

 -  History of viral diseases (i.e. HIV, hepatitis)