Project Title: Low-coverage whole-genome sequencing analysis of polygenic mechanisms of high cholesterol levels in patients with clinically diagnosed or possible familial hypercholesterolemia

 Project No: lzp-2020/1-0151

Period: 1 January 2021 – 31 December 2023

Project costs: 300 000 EUR

Principle Investigator: University of Latvia (G.Latkovskis)

Collaborator: Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre (J.Kloviņš)

Summary

Increased cholesterol level is the primary factor increasing atherosclerotic heart and vascular disease risk. With 8000 cases atherosclerotic prevalence in Latvia is among the highest in Europe. Its subtype – Familial hypercholesteremia is characterized by high cholesterol level for many generations with atherosclerosis usually developing in young people at working age. It is the most common inherited disease that results in premature death for an adults. Disease has an undisputed effect on health of society and state medical care budget, which results in negative socioeconomic consequences. Study aims to determine polygenic mechanisms of hypercholesteremia using an innovative method of low coverage whole genome sequencing. Results will help understand disease mechanisms, specify patient risk, develop better plan for care as well as allow for translation of method for greater span of hypercholesteremia patients.

Information published 04.01.2021.