Genetic Predictors of Susceptibility to Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases in Indigenous Northern Populations: A Systematic Review

The genetic predisposition of indigenous northern populations to metabolic and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is influenced by evolutionary adaptations to extreme climatic conditions, traditional diets, and recent abrupt changes in nutrition and physical activity. This review synthesizes data on gene polymorphisms involved in the regulation of lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, including CPT1A, LDLR, LPL, APOE, FADS1/2, ANGPTL8, PLIN1, HNF1A, and TBC1D4. Special emphasis is placed on the CPT1A P479L mutation, which is associated with unique characteristics of fat metabolism, as well as LDLR and LPL variants that modulate the risk of hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis. The review further examines the impact of dietary changes on lipid profiles and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome. Additionally, polygenic risk factors, their interactions with environmental exposures, and the potential of personalized medicine for diagnosing and preventing CVD in northern populations are discussed.