Molecular and genotypic risk factors for abdominal aortic aneurysms [ 2004 - 2005 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Paul Norman (Principal investigator) ,  Prof Frank Van Bockxmeer ,  Prof Lyle Palmer

Brief description An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA) is a dilatation of the main abdominal artery. This is an asymptomatic condition which may cause sudden death due to rupture of the AAA once it reaches a certain size (usually over 5cm in diameter) Between 1996 and 1998, 12,000 men aged 65-79 attended the Western Australian Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm screening study. The main aim of the study is to assess the influence of screening on mortality from AAA. Since 1997, approximately 90 men with large AAA have had elective surgical repair of AAA and 700 men with small AAA (aortic diameter 3-5 cm) have participated in the follow-up study involving 6-12 monthly ultrasound scans. The aim of the follow-up study is to assess rates of and risk factors for expansion of screen-detected AAA. The cause of AAA is unclear but appears to be due to a combination of environmental (eg smoking) and genetic influences. It is unknowm which genes might be involved. The current grant application seeks funding to initiate the study of possible genes associated with AAA . Blood samples from which DNA (genetic material) can be extracted have already been obtained from 650 men with AAA. Men without AAA are currently being reviewed as part of another study and it will be possible to obtain similar DNA samples these men. Patterns of gene polymorphisms (common minor mutations) in men with AAA will be compared with those without AAA.

Funding Amount $AUD 221,750.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant