KIF6 Genetic Testing at the Center for Preventive Medicine and Cardiology – Los Angeles
KIF6 genetic testing is a new advanced diagnostic method in the rapidly-developing field of preventive cardiology. It may be helpful in predicting risk for cardiovascular disease, such as heart attack or stroke.
What is KIF6?
KIF6 is a gene. Some people have variations in this gene, called mutations. A particular type of mutation in the KIF6 gene, known as a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), results when one amino acid that is part of the protein normally coded for by the KIF6 gene – tryptophan – is replaced by a different amino acid, arginine.
People who have the KIF6 mutation:
- May have a substantially higher risk of cardiovascular disease (heart attack and stroke)
- May respond much better to treatment with “statin” drugs
These two associations suggest that KIF6 testing:
- May be helpful in addition to other diagnostic tests designed to assess cardiovascular risk
- May allow for early interventional treatment with statins, to which KIF6-positive patients are more likely to respond
How is the KIF6 test performed?
It’s a very simple and painless test. A nurse will take a swab of the inside of your cheek. This gives us a sample of DNA from your cheek cells. We then send the sample for expedited evaluation at a specialized lab.
How do I get the KIF6 test?
Call the Center for Preventive Medicine and Cardiology at 310-550-8000 or click here to make an appointment. We are conveniently located in the heart of Beverly Hills, within easy driving distance for most residents of greater Los Angeles.
Note: Reports in the media and scientific literature about this test can be confusing. There is a great deal of research ongoing in this area, so if you have any questions about KIF6 or other genetic tests, Dr. Bereliani will be happy to discuss them with you.