Novel mutations in the lamin A/C gene in heart transplant recipients with end stage dilated cardiomyopathy

Abstract
Mutations in the lamin A/C gene seem to be important aetiological factors in familial DCM. So far, several research groups have described about 40 DCM associated mutations in this gene.1–4 Heart disease caused by lamin A/C gene mutations is characterised by conduction system disorders with the need for permanent pacemaker implantation, atrial fibrillation, severe heart failure, and increased risk for sudden cardiac death.4 Patients with mutations in the lamin A/C gene often develop a progressive form of disease leading to heart transplantation or sudden cardiac death.4 Therefore, we decided to investigate a homogeneous group of consecutive Finnish heart transplant recipients with end stage DCM and to search for mutations in the lamin A/C gene.