With increasing age, men experience a so-called mosaic-like loss of the Y chromosome (LOY). The Y chromosome is not lost in all, but only in some of the white blood cells in particular - comparable to a mosaic of different cell types. Men over 60 are particularly affected, and as blood cells are regularly renewed - white blood cells, for example, every few days to weeks - this loss can increase over time. This acquired genetic change goes unnoticed for a long time, but can affect cell function and increase the risk of certain diseases.
Higher risk of fatal heart attacks
A research team led by Prof Andreas Zeiher from Goethe University and University Medicine Frankfurt investigated this connection in more detail. The scientists analysed blood samples from almost 1,700 men who had taken part in the Ludwigshafen Risk and Cardiovascular Health (LURIC) study. This long-term study comprises patient data from men who underwent cardiac catheterisation between 1997 and 2000. The results are alarming: men with a pronounced Y chromosome loss not only had an overall higher risk of cardiovascular disease, but also a 50 per cent higher probability of dying as a result of a heart attack.
The researchers discovered that blood cells without the Y chromosome release more messenger substances that promote inflammation and scarring in the heart tissue. Laboratory experiments have shown that this process alters the function of certain immune cells - with possible negative consequences for the heart.
New opportunities for targeted prevention
‘Our results show that chromosomal changes that occur with age may play a greater role in heart health than we previously thought,’ says Prof Andreas Zeiher. ‘In the long term, measuring Y chromosome loss could help to identify men with a particularly high risk at an early stage and treat them in a targeted manner.’
These findings open up new possibilities for personalised prevention and treatment. In future, a simple blood test could help to recognise at-risk patients at an early stage and provide targeted protection against cardiovascular disease.
Original publication:
Weyrich M, Zewinger S, Sarakpi T, et al. Mosaic loss of Y chromosome and mortality after coronary angiography. Eur Heart J. Published online February 12, 2025. doi:10.1093/eurheartj/ehaf035
Scientific Contact:
Prof. Andreas Zeiher, Goethe University and the University Medical Centre Frankfurt, zeiher@em.uni-frankfurt.de
