Purpose of Review
Saccular intracranial aneurysm (sIA) is a relatively common intracranial arterial pathology with a prevalence of approximately 3%. Rupture of sIA causes subarachnoid hemorrhage, which is the third most frequent form of stroke and which predominantly affects the working-age population. The underlying causes of IA are complex, and the role of genetics in its pathobiology is poorly characterized. This review summarizes the latest research on sIA genetics, focusing on the large genome-wide association study (GWAS) approach.
Recent Findings
The six GWAS papers published since 2008 identified several IA risk loci in multiple populations. However, the risk exerted by these loci explains only a fraction of the observed genetic risk in sIA disease.
Summary
Improved sequencing techniques, such as whole exome or genome sequencing, may further clarify the role of genetics in sIA disease. Population-specific loci in isolates may reveal novel pathways associated with sIA disease. The ultimate goal is to develop therapies that prevent the formation, growth, and rupture of sIAs.