Abstract：The etiology of sudden unexplained death (SUD) is complicated, and its incidence remains significant at present. The key to its prevention and treatment lies in identifying the underlying pathogenic factors. With the progress of molecular biology techniques, numerous studies at home and abroad have substantiated a strong association between sudden cardiac death (SCD) caused by pathogenic gene mutations and SUD. The conspicuous clustering characteristics observed in cases of Yunnan sudden unexplained death (YNSUD) indicate the potential involvement of molecular genetics. In the population of the affected area, the detection rates of abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG) indicators increased while cardiac pathological changes were found in 90% of sudden death cases, which further implies a possible correlation between YNSUD and pathogenic gene mutations related to SCD. Understanding the genetic predisposition, genetic mutation, risk factors, and pathogenic mechanisms of SCD contributes to identifying the highrisk factors associated with this kind of sudden death, so as to carry out targeted prevention and treatment. This paper reviews the current research trends in hereditary arrhythmias and hereditary cardiomyopathy related to SUD, and summarizes the latest research results and pathogenic factors.It is aimed to provide a foundation for further investigations on the etiology.
