Evaluation of Radiogenomics for Risk Stratification of Intracranial Aneurysms: A Pilot Study
Sricharan S Veeturi1, Kerry E Poppenberg1, Nandor K Pinter1
1University at Buffalo, State University of New York.
Research Square
|June 12, 2025
Summary
Combining imaging biomarkers and blood-based genetic markers improves the risk assessment of intracranial aneurysms (IAs). This radiogenomics approach offers better stratification of IA risk compared to imaging features alone.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Genomics
- Biomarkers
Background:
- Aneurysm wall enhancement (AWE) is an imaging biomarker for intracranial aneurysms (IAs).
- Risk stratification of IAs is crucial for patient management.
- A radiogenomics approach may enhance IA risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore a radiogenomics approach combining AWE radiomics features (RFs) and blood-based differentially expressed genes (DEGs).
- To improve the risk stratification of intracranial aneurysms (IAs).
Main Methods:
- Vessel wall imaging and whole blood samples were collected from 16 IAs.
- IAs were classified as high- or low-risk using symptomatic status and PHASES score.
- Radiomics features (RFs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and correlated.
- Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to evaluate risk stratification performance.
Main Results:
- 22 RFs and 97 DEGs differed significantly between symptomatic and asymptomatic IAs.
- 10 RFs and 38 DEGs were identified when using the PHASES score for risk stratification.
- A significant correlation was found between 15 RFs and 49 DEGs.
- Radiogenomics features demonstrated superior IA risk stratification compared to RFs alone.
Conclusions:
- A radiogenomics approach integrating AWE-derived RFs and blood-based DEGs shows promise for enhanced IA risk stratification.
- This combined approach may offer a more comprehensive understanding of IA pathobiology and improve clinical decision-making.
