The prime risk factors for heart disease are well known—obesity, smoking, elevated cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Yet many people with these warning signs develop heart problems, while others don’t. This observation indicates that yet-unrecognized factors must also influence risk.
A new study finds that the sequence-repeating sections of DNA called telomeres, which protect the ends of chromosomes, might play a role.
Log in
Subscribers, enter your e-mail address for full access to the Science News archives and digital editions.