The-323Ins10 polymorphism for factor VII is not associated with coronary atherosclerosis in symptomatic men

Elevated factor VII coagulant activity (FVII:C) has been associated with an increased risk of ischaemic heart disease, particularly for fatal events. Results of studies on the association between FVII:C and atherosclerosis ar e not consistent. FVII:C levels are influenced by several environmental fac tors and by genetic factors. One of the genetic factors is the -323Ins10 po lymorphism in the promoter region of the factor VII gene, which is strongly related to FVII:C, and thus may be associated with ischaemic heart disease . We studied the association of this polymorphism with the severity and pro gression of atherosclerosis, In 511 male patients of the Regression Growth Evaluation Statin Study, the genotype for the -323Ins10 polymorphism was de termined. The minimum obstruction diameter and the mean segment diameter we re determined at baseline and after a 2-year follow-up period, and new lesi on formation was assessed as well. Cardiovascular events were recorded. No relationship was observed between the -323Ins10 polymorphism and angiograph ic measures of disease progression, nor on the risk of new cardiovascular e vents. The results suggest that there is no association between the -323Ins 10 polymorphism for factor VII and the severity or progression of coronary atherosclerosis in male patients with symptomatic coronary artery disease. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.