Gene differences linked to statin response in black patients

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Statins are drugs that help prevent heart disease. These drugs lower the “bad” type of cholesterol (LDL) in the blood. Differences in our genes, called variants, affect how well statins work. But most of these gene variants have only been studied in white patients. Different genes may be involved in other ethnic groups. Using BioVU, Vanderbilt scientists will look for variants in black patients taking the statin simvastatin. They will study how these variants affect how well the drug works. The findings may help us better prevent heart disease in these patients. The results may also lead to new ways to treat heart disease.