Mitral Valve Prolapse: From Genes To New Therapies
Authors: Robert A. Levine,MD, Sue Slaughaupt, PhD, Albert Hagege,MD, PhD, Xavier Jeunemaitre, MD, PhD, Russell A. Norris, MD, Roger R Markwald, on behalf of the Leducq Mitral Consortium
Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP) is a common cardiac disorder that occurs in approximately 2.4 percent of the general population. The mitral is one of four valve that direct blood flow through the heart and allows blood to flow into the main pumping chamber of the heart. When the mitral valve does not function properly the flaps may "billow" backwards. causing MVP with backwards blood flow into the left atrium. MVP can cause progressive changes to the leaflets that lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath and heart failure.
Identifying specific genes and mechanisms causing MVP can provide powerful new insights into how it can be treated, especially if diagnosed early. To this end, we have assembled a Trans Atlantic Network of Excellence, initially funded by a grant from the Leducq Foundation (grant 07CVD04), whose goal is to identifying genes that play a role in MVP. This group is comprised of over 50 internationally recognized scientists and cardiologist from the US, France, UK, Italy, and Spain all working towards the common goal of discovering how and why MVP develops as well as developing non-surgical strategies to slow or prevent the progression of this condition in people susceptible to developing its complications.
To achieve this goal requires collecting 2000 individuals to look for genes that cause MVP. If you or your family is interested in participating in this MVP genetic study please contact Leah Rastiello at 617-643-5418 or Irastiello@chgr.mgh.harvard.edu. This study involves a one-time blood draw and an echo diagnosis of MVP. We need your help to find a cure.
Through the work of this collective group, the future can be improved through discoveries that will improve treatment options and potential cures for MVP.
You may have your blood drawn at the clinic of your choice, please contact Leah to arrange for delivery of the tubes. ( 610-643-5418) lrastiello@chgr.mgh.harvard.edu
This study is for patients who have "classic" MVP and /or patients who have had a Mitral Valve replacement or repair.
MVP Syndrome/dysautonomia is categorized as nonclassic.
This study is not for patients who have MVP Syndrome/Dysautonomia, unless your physician has said you also have classic MVP.
While this is not proven, people with MVPS, almost never have a valve problem. Their symptoms are from a nervous system imbalance, not from the valve, or heart.
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