Genetic aspects of microangiopathy-related cerebral damage

Abstract

Microangiopathy related cerebral damage (MARCD) includes early confluent and confluent white matter hyperintensities (WMH) and lacunar lesions. It is expected to be the result of interactions between multiple genetic and environmental factors. The estimated proportion of genetic factors contributing to the interindividual variation seen in WMH volume is 73%. This estimate points to a significant genetic component in WMH development. In the setting of the Austrian Stroke Prevention Study we search for genes being associated with the presence, severity and progression of MARCD using the candidate gene approach. Defining susceptibility genes may allow to better identify individuals at high risk for MARCD and to target preventive measures.