News Genetics

Double-duty DNA plays a role in birth and death

Some gene versions stuck around because fertility advantage outweighs heart disease risk

sleeping baby

DOUBLE-EDGED DNA  Genes associated with reproduction are also implicated in heart disease, new research shows.   

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By Maria Temming

- More than 2 years ago

Babies are little heartbreakers — literally. Genetic variants linked to fertility are also linked to coronary artery disease, a new study finds.

It’s not uncommon to find genes that affect more than one trait, but this is the first time scientists have seen a genetic connection between reproduction and heart disease, the researchers report online June 22 in PLOS Genetics.