GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The Michigan State University College of Human Medicine is working to raise awareness of an often hidden gene mutation that’s linked to Dutch ancestry.
The PLN gene acts as a sort of “dimmer switch” for the heart, helping to regulate its contraction, explained Dr. Charles Hong, professor and chair of the department of medicine.
Experts believe this particular mutation arose centuries ago in Friesland, a province of the Netherlands, and was passed down through the generations. For those who have it, “the dimmer switch is always off,” Hong said. The mutation is linked to heart failure and sudden cardiac death.
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He said the mutation tends to manifest itself in one’s 30s, 40s or 50s. Symptoms can include shortness of breath and dizziness — but according to Hong, even if you have no symptoms, you could still be at risk…