Cardiomyopathies associated with the DES gene mutations: molecular pathogenesis and gene therapy approaches

Cardiomyopathy (CMP) is a common group of cardiovascular disorders. Genetic (primary) cardiomyopathies are related to abnormalities in more than 100 genes, including the DES gene encoding desmin protein. Desmin is an essential member of the intermediate filaments, ensuring the structural and functional integrity of myocytes. Mutations in the DES gene result in desmin-related cardiomyopathy with progressive course and poor prognosis. By now,...