Molecular genetics of cerebral aneurysm

Abstract

Subarachnoid hemorrhage(SAH) secondary to ruptured cerebral aneurysm is a complex trait, with both genetic and environmental risk factors playing an important part. The 30-day mortality rate of patients with SAH is 40% to 44%, with survivors suffering from major disability. Despite the high incidence and catastrophic consequences of a ruptured cerebral aneurysm and the fact that there is considerable evidence that predisposition to cerebral aneurysm has a strong genetic component, very little is understood with regard to the pathology and pathogenesis of this disease. Recent advances in molecular genetics provide evidence that genetic variants of different candidate genes are associated with the occurrence of cerebral aneurysm. This article reviews the evidence supporting a genetic predisposition to SAH from cerebral aneurysm, the conditions commonly associated with cerebral aneurysm, and the search for genetic risk factors.