Genetic causes of spontaneous coronary artery dissection

Genetic Investigations in Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD)

Observational Mayo Clinic · NCT01427179

This project will test whether inherited or new gene changes cause spontaneous coronary artery dissection in adults with SCAD and their biological relatives.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment2000 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMayo Clinic Academic / other
Locations1 site (Rochester, Minnesota)
Trial IDNCT01427179 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

The study creates a genomic DNA and plasma biobank from adults with angiographically confirmed SCAD and from their biological parents and affected relatives. Researchers will search for inherited and de novo mutations and look for common genetic variants that increase SCAD risk using genomic analyses. Participants are identified both retrospectively and prospectively, with diagnosis confirmed by coronary angiogram review before consent and sample collection. Long-term goals include defining molecular mechanisms and developing biomarkers to improve prediction and prevention of SCAD.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Adults with one or more confirmed episodes of SCAD who can give informed consent, and their biological parents or relatives with fibromuscular dysplasia, arterial aneurysm, or arterial dissection willing to provide samples.

Not a fit: People without angiographic confirmation of SCAD or those unable to provide informed consent or a blood/saliva sample are unlikely to benefit from participation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could enable genetic tests and biomarkers to identify people at higher risk for SCAD and support family screening and prevention strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Some prior genetic and genome-wide studies have found risk loci suggesting a genetic contribution to SCAD, but comprehensive inherited and de novo mutation analysis remains relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Men and women able to give informed consent and complete a 2 page questionnaire
* Diagnosis of one or more episodes of spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD)
* Biological parent of individual with SCAD
* Relative with fibromuscular dysplasia, arterial aneurysm, or arterial dissection

Exclusion Criteria:

* Lack of confirmation of SCAD diagnosis

Where this trial is running

Rochester, Minnesota

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Spontaneous Coronary Artery DissectionSCADSpontaneous coronary artery dissection
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.