They show that babies born with variations of three genes had 14 times more likely to die from cot death.
Microbiologist Dr. David Drucker, who led the research told Asia News International, "We first identified an association between SIDS and specific variants of a gene called Interleukin-10 five years ago. Quite simply, a baby who had particular variations of this gene was at greater risk of SIDS than other babies."
He added, "Now, we have discovered two more genes implicated in SIDS and when a baby has certain genetic variants or 'polymorphisms' of all three of these genes he or she can be up to 14 times more likely to die from the condition."
The study also found that the genes researched by the investigators played a role in the body's immune response to infection. Since infants aged two to four months have weak immune systems to begin with, they are not likely to cope well with infectious agents in the surroundings.
The team said that specific variants of these genes lead to an "excessive inflammatory response" which in turn results in cot death.
Dr. Drucker, who carried out the work in collaboration with pediatric pathologist Dr Anthony Barson told Asia News International, "This research greatly advances our understanding of the basic causes of SIDS, which is not a single disease but a collection of different causes of death."
He added, "Being able to detect high-risk babies means that health care and social provision can be aimed at the most vulnerable infants."
The researchers concluded, "But ultimately, this research will improve our ability to identify in advance which babies will be at risk of SIDS so their mothers can be personally advised to eliminate other risk factors such as dangerous sleeping position for their infant."
