A team of researchers has conducted the largest study of its kind to identify genetic variants associated with gout. The study, led by scientists from the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, involved more than 2.6 million people. The researchers identified 376 genetic variants associated with gout, including some that had previously been linked to the condition. The findings may help scientists better understand the underlying causes of gout, which is estimated to affect around 4-5 percent of the population globally.
The study results, published in the journal Nature Genetics, suggest that gout is influenced by both environmental and genetic factors. While the condition is typically caused by an indulgent diet, such as eating too much red meat and drinking alcohol, the research indicates that genetics may also play a role.
The team found that the genetic variants associated with gout were located in areas related to urate metabolism, inflammation, immunity and cell death. The authors of the study say the findings could help to develop better treatments for the condition and could help identify people at risk of developing gout.
The findings of the study provide further evidence of the importance of genetics in conditions such as gout. The research highlights the need for further investigation into the role of genetics in the development of gout and other conditions, as well as the potential for developing better treatments.
A team of researchers has conducted a large-scale study to explore the genetic and environmental factors that may influence gout. The study, published in the journal Nature Genetics, involved more than 2.6 million people and identified 376 genetic variants associated with gout. The findings suggest that gout is influenced by both environmental and genetic factors, with the genetic variants located in areas related to urate metabolism, inflammation, immunity and cell death. The authors of the study say the findings could help to develop better treatments for the condition and could help identify people at risk of developing gout. The research highlights the need for further investigation into the role of genetics in the development of gout and other conditions.