Genetic influences on human baroreflex regulation.

Baroreflex mechanisms have a central role in blood pressure regulation. In addition to disturbing cardiovascular regulation, impaired baroreflex function is a poor prognostic sign. However, baroreflex function is composed of several individual phenotypes because baroreflexes regulate heart rate and vascular tone in a complex way. Given the physiological and clinical relevance of human baroreflex function, several investigators attempted to identify "baroreflex" genes. Studies in monozygotic and dizygotic twins suggested that several components of baroreflex function may be heritable. Other studies in rare disorders identified putative baroreflex genes. However, data on genes affecting baroreflex function in the general population is scarce. Some studies described associations between discrete gene polymorphisms and baroreflex heart rate regulation. A major drawback of this approach is the large number of false positive results. Studies including families may be preferable to traditional association studies. Knowledge gathered in these large scale studies could be complemented by carefully conducted clinical studies in relevant genetically defined conditions.