[Vasovagal syncope: from genetic to bedside].

Recent studies suggest vasovagal syncope has a significant heritable component indicating that, at least some forms of vasovagal syncope may have a genetic cause. The beta1-adrenergic receptor is a key cell surface signaling protein expressed in the heart and major determinant of cardiac function. The role of genetics in the phenotypic manifestations of vasovagal syncope is unclear. Here, we report the characteristics of several families with several affected members with vasovagal syncope, as well as the results of several genetic studies exploring the prevalence of polymorphisms in the beta1 adrenergic receptors which may be associated with vasovagal syncope.