Genetics of ischemic stroke

Stroke is the third leading cause of death and a majorcause of disability worldwide. Most cases of ischemicstroke are attributable to hypertension and other riskfactors, but in over 20% of cases, the cause is unknown.Recent research has implicated some novel genes inthe etiology of ischemic stroke, including genes forsoluble epoxide hydrolase (sHE), 5-lipoxygenaseactivating protein (FLAP) and phosphodiesterase4D (PDE4D). Moreover, thrombophilic states suchas prothrombin G20210A mutation and factor VLeiden are now known to cause arterial stroke aswell as venous thrombosis. Meanwhile, the recentavailability of enzyme replacement therapy for Fabrydisease and the proven benefits of regular bloodtransfusion in certain patients with sickle cell diseasehave greatly altered the outlook of these devastatinginherited disorders. Thus, our understanding of therole of genetic factors in stroke raises the prospectsfor accurate assessment of future stroke risk amongsusceptible individuals, in whom early preventive measures may be life-saving. Further research into thegenetics of stroke will clearly compliment ongoingnational and international efforts to reduce the globalburden of stroke.