New genetic cause of pulmonary hypertension identified

Scientists have identified new genetic mutations that can cause pulmonary arterial hypertension, a rare fatal disease characterized by high blood pressure in the lungs. The mutations, found in the gene KCNK3, appear to affect potassium channels in the pulmonary artery, a mechanism not previously linked to the condition. Cell culture studies showed that the mutations’ effects could be reversed with a drug compound known as a phospholipase inhibitor.

Fuente : http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2013-07/cum…