[Influence of genetics in intracranial aneurysms]

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Genetics
• Vascular Biology

Background:

• Unruptured intracranial aneurysms affect 3-5% of the population.
• Ruptured aneurysms lead to significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in middle-aged individuals.
• Increased incidental detection of aneurysms is linked to advances in noninvasive imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the genetic underpinnings of intracranial aneurysm development.
• To understand the heterogeneity and complexity of genetic factors influencing aneurysm risk.

Main Methods:

• Review of genetic studies identifying genes associated with intracranial aneurysm risk.
• Consideration of both polygenic multifactorial diseases and monogenic conditions.
• Analysis of established vascular risk factors in aneurysm etiology.

Main Results:

• Intracranial aneurysm development is influenced by a diverse range of genetic factors.
• Both common genetic variations and rare mutations play a role.
• Genetic predisposition interacts with environmental and lifestyle factors.

Conclusions:

• The genetic basis of intracranial aneurysms is complex and heterogeneous.
• Currently, no definitive diagnostic test exists to identify high-risk patients for asymptomatic intracranial aneurysms beyond imaging.
• Further research into genetic markers is needed for improved risk stratification.