Genetically Proxied IL-6 Receptor Inhibition and Coronary Artery Disease Risk in a Japanese Population

Interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R) signaling is increasingly recognized as a contributor to atherothrombosis and coronary artery disease risk. However, genetic studies and placebo-controlled trials of IL-6 signaling inhibition have largely been restricted to populations of European ancestry.1,2 Studies of Japanese populations have consistently shown that levels of circulating IL-6 and C-reactive protein (CRP) are lower compared to European populations, even after accounting for bodyweight.3 Given the observed differences, people of Japanese ancestry may not be subject to IL-6R mediated cardiovascular risk to the same extent.