Stroke and Etiopathogenesis: What Is Known?

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Genetics
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• A significant portion of stroke risk is currently unexplained.
• Genetic factors are increasingly recognized as contributors to stroke predisposition, often interacting within multifactorial models.
• The complexity of stroke phenotypes presents a challenge in identifying specific genetic determinants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance understanding of the biological pathways involved in stroke pathogenesis.
• To accelerate the discovery of novel therapeutic targets for stroke by elucidating its genetic underpinnings.
• To provide a comprehensive review of genetic and epigenetic factors influencing stroke risk.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of scientific literature up to February 2022.
• Keywords used include: stroke, causes, etiopathogenesis, genetic, epigenetic, ischemic stroke.
• Focus on summarizing current research regarding the genetic basis of stroke.

Main Results:

• Genetic risk variants typically have small effect sizes, complicating direct risk prediction.
• The use of genetic panels for stroke risk assessment and research is being explored.
• Emerging biomarkers for genetic stroke causes and potential gene therapy targets are on the horizon.

Conclusions:

• This review synthesizes the latest evidence on ischemic stroke genetics.
• Findings are relevant for clinicians in managing stroke prevention and treatment.
• Understanding genetic factors is crucial for advancing stroke care and research.