Impact of genetic factors on outcome from brain injury

Abstract

Most human phenotypic characteristics are determined by the interplay of environmental factors (whether external, or related to the internal milieu) with the unique genetic attributes of the individual. The same is true for predisposition to and outcome from most disease states, with acute brain injury being no exception. A greater understanding of this interplay is likely to allow improved risk stratification of patients, the development of new preventative and therapeutic modalities, and the possibility of 'individualizing' patient management based upon their genetic inheritance. © The Board of Management and Trustees of the British Journal of Anaesthesia 2007. All rights reserved.