Plasma factor VII levels are determined by polymorphisms in the factor VII gene

Elevated factor VII coagulant activity (FVII:C) is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. FVII:C and FVII protein concentration (FVII:Ag) are influenced by environmental factors such as diet and by genetic factors. We examined the effects of FVII polymorphisms on 1) fasting and non-fasting values of FVII:C, FVII:Ag and activated FVII (FVIIa) and 2) the relation between total triglycerides and FVII measures. Fortyfour males (age 30-60 y) participated in the study, and had blood drawn in the fasting state. A subgroup (n = 19) was also studied in the non-fasting state after consumption of two high-fat meals, FVII:C, FVII:Ag, FVIIa and total triglycerides were measured as well as genotypes of the promoter, HVR4 and Msp1 polymorphisms of the FVII gene. There was a marked effect of the promoter and Msp1 polymorphism on fasting FVII:C, FVII:AS and FVIIa, and of the Msp1 polymorphism on the fasting FVIIa/FVIIag ratio, with about 15-40 % lower levels in heterozygotes. The Msp1 polymorphism also had an effect on non-fasting FVII:C. A significant correlation between fasting total triglycerides and FVII measures was only seen in individuals homozygous for the common Msp1 and promoter alleles.