The results of research by young scientists from Lobachevsky University were awarded second place at the All-Russian competition for the best innovative research of the Russian Society of Cardiology.

"Cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of mortality in our country. In 2022, they accounted for more than 50% of cases in the structure of total mortality in the Nizhny Novgorod region. In addition to preventive medical check-ups and examinations, scientists and doctors are looking for more accurate, genetic indicators of heart attack risk at a young age," said Professor Natalia Grigoryeva, Acting Director of the UNN Institute of Clinical Medicine.

Nizhny Novgorod scientists aimed to identify molecular genetic and clinical indicators of early vascular aging in young patients with myocardial infarction and to determine ways to influence these factors in order to ensure healthy longevity.

In 2022, 1300 patients with myocardial infarction were examined at the City Clinical Hospital No. 5 in Nizhny Novgorod.  65 men and 15 women were selected from this number by random sampling method for detailed analysis. Clinical features, biochemical, and molecular genetic markers including 45 single nucleotide polymorphisms were analysed in three age groups.

"In the study group, genetic traits that determine predisposition to the occurrence of a heart attack in younger years were found. It was also found that a decrease in the expression of the genes under study favours the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which supports chronic inflammation after a heart attack," Natalia Grigoryeva reported.

Scientists continue to monitor patients over time, looking for ways of effective pharmaceutical therapy to prevent complications and increase the life expectancy of patients who have suffered a myocardial infarction.

The research was undertaken as part of the Priority 2030 strategic academic leadership programme.