Genetic aspects of ischemic stroke

Abstract

Stroke is one of the most common causes of death and long term disability throughout the world. It is not only induced by classic vascular risk factors like hypertension, cigarette smoking and diabetes mellitus, but also by genetic factors. The genetic etiology of ischemic stroke is polygenic. The candidate »stroke risk« genes may be conveniently divided into five groups, affecting (i) lipid metabolism, (ii) the renin-angiotensin system, (iii) haemostasis, (iv) nitric oxide production, and (v) homocysteine metabolism. Since stroke is a complex disease comprising a heterogeneous group of disorders with multiple risk factors, research into genetics of stroke presents some unique challenges. Numerous studies have investigated the role of genetics in the pathogenesis of stroke, with varied and often contradictory results. Additional knowledge of the role of genes in ischemic stroke may improve our understanding of the cause of stroke, provide new insights into prevention and the factors that influence the outcome of stroke, and new therapeutic targets when preventive strategies have failed.