Insertion/deletion polymorphism of the angiotensin-converting enzyme predicts left ventricular hypertrophy after renal transplantation

Abstract

Background: Kidney transplant recipients show a higher risk for cardiovascular complications, such as left ventricular hypertrophy and heart failure, leading to the premature death in many cases.

Methods: We investigated the contribution of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism to the development of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), an indicator of heart disease progression among kidney transplant recipients.

Results: We observed a significant correlation between graft function and left ventricular mass index. The occurrence of LVH or severe LVH was significantly greater among patients with at least one D-allele (ID or DD).

Conclusion: The use of ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers seemed to be advantageous for patients with the ID and especially, the DD genotype.