Genetic polymorphisms in lncRNAs predict recurrence of ischemic stroke

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Molecular Biology
• Neurology

Background:

• Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are increasingly recognized for their roles in complex diseases.
• Genetic polymorphisms in lncRNAs are potential biomarkers for disease prediction.
• The association between lncRNA polymorphisms and ischemic stroke (IS) onset and prognosis remains largely unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between specific lncRNA gene polymorphisms and the onset and recurrence of ischemic stroke (IS).
• To identify potential genetic biomarkers for predicting IS risk and outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Genotyping of eight functional polymorphisms in four lncRNAs (H19, MALAT1, MEG3, SENCR) in 657 IS patients.
• Analysis of the association between lncRNA variants and IS onset, including age at onset.
• Evaluation of the association between lncRNA variants and IS recurrence using multivariate Cox regression models.

Main Results:

• No association was found between the studied lncRNA variants and the age of IS onset.
• The MEG3 rs4081134 AA genotype was significantly associated with a reduced risk of IS recurrence.
• This protective effect was more pronounced in patients with large-artery atherosclerotic stroke, elders, non-smokers, non-drinkers, and hypertensive individuals.
• The MEG3 rs4081134 AA genotype was identified as an independent predictor of IS recurrence.

Conclusions:

• The MEG3 rs4081134 polymorphism may serve as a valuable biomarker for predicting IS recurrence.
• MEG3 rs4081134 presents a potential therapeutic target for mitigating IS recurrence.
• Further research is warranted to validate these findings and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.