Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a condition in which the heart's main pumping chamber (left ventricle) becomes enlarged (dilated) and weakened, reducing the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently. It is one of the most common cardiomyopathies and a leading cause of heart failure and heart transplantation.

About 30-50% of DCM cases are familial (inherited), with autosomal dominant inheritance being the most common pattern. However, the condition can also result from viral infections, excessive alcohol use, certain chemotherapy drugs, thyroid disorders, and other causes.

Symptoms of DCM develop gradually and may include fatigue, shortness of breath (especially during exertion or when lying flat), swelling in the legs and feet, irregular heartbeat, and dizziness. Some individuals may remain asymptomatic for extended periods before the condition is discovered, while others may present with sudden cardiac death.

Familial DCM has been linked to mutations in over 50 genes, many of which encode structural proteins of the heart muscle. The most commonly affected genes include TTN (encoding titin, found in 15-25% of familial cases), LMNA, MYH7, and genes encoding desmosomal proteins. Genetic testing can help identify at-risk family members who may benefit from early monitoring.

NutraHacker examines the following genes related to Dilated Cardiomyopathy:

• BAG3
• DES
• FLNC
• LMNA
• MYH7
• RBM20
• TTN
• TNNT2

For more information about your own genetic profile as related to Dilated Cardiomyopathy, please check out our NutraHacker WGS Critical Genetics Report.

Or to get going without any further delay, upload WGS raw DNA data and find out more about your critical genetics profile today.