Katharina Buczek
A new study conducted by scientists from Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Massachusetts General Hospital has revealed possible genetic links between major depression, coronary artery disease, and cardiomyopathy, a condition affecting the heart muscle.
The researchers propose that these connections are influenced by inflammatory pathways, suggesting that medications targeting both coronary artery disease and depression could potentially mitigate inflammation and lower the risk of cardiomyopathy development.
One of the most prevalent heart conditions worldwide is coronary artery disease, and it remains a primary cause of morality. This condition manifests when the primary blood vessels supplying the heart with blood, oxygen, and essential nutrients – known as coronary arteries – suffer damage or disease.
Typically, the culprits behind this condition are cholesterol-laden deposits – or plaques – within the arteries, as well as associated inflammation.
Once the plaques accumulate, they can constrict arteries and diminish the flow of blood to the heart. Consequently, individuals may experience symptoms such as chest discomfort or breathing difficulties, which could escalate into more severe complications such as heart attacks.
On the other hand, major depression – which is also referred to as major depressive disorder (MDD) – represents a significant mental health disorder that causes individuals to feel persistently sad and hopeless and have diminished interest or enjoyment in their daily activities.
MDD impacts an individual’s emotions, cognitive processes, and capability to manage daily tasks. So, this condition also correlates with a range of physical and emotional problems and can impair an individual’s performance in both their personal and professional lives.
Lastly, cardiomyopathy encompasses a spectrum of heart muscle disorders. With this condition, the heart muscle undergoes enlargement, thickening, or stiffening, and in uncommon instances, it may even be substituted with scar tissue.
As cardiomyopathy progresses, the heart’s pumping capability diminishes, impairing its ability to circulate blood effectively and sustain a regular electrical rhythm. Consequently, this may cause heart failure or irregular heart rhythms, known as arrhythmias.
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