Scientists have identified a genetic mechanism which appears to determine which fatty deposits in the arteries have the potential to kill us. Most of these plaques pose no risk to health, but a minority burst, forming blood clots, which can cause heart attacks or strokes. A Columbia University team pinpointed a gene which seems to make plaques more vulnerable to rupture. The American study appears in the journal Cell Metabolism. Fatty deposits begin to form in the arteries of most people in their teens, but the vast majority are harmless. However, it is thought that around 2% of plaques have the potential to burst. This can lead to the development of a clot, which can restrict blood supply to the heart or brain, with potentially grave consequences. Scientists believe one of the key factors determining whether a plaque will burst is the make up of its inner core. Dead cells The inner core of plaques vulnerable to rupture often contains a lot of dead cells. These cells release substances that can weaken the surface cap of the plaque, making rupture more likely. The Columbia team identified a gene thought […]