Large heterogeneity of mutations in the gene encoding the low-density lipoprotein receptor in subjects with familial hypercholesterolaemia

Molecular genetic testing for presymptomatic identification of subjects affected by familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is difficult due to the heterogeneity of the mutations in the gene encoding the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) in most populations. This investigation presents a detailed analysis of comparable, country-specific prevalence data of LDLR mutations in subjects with clinically defined FH and assesses the heterogeneous mutation diversity observed in most geographic regions. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.