Genes, Vol. 11, Pages 89: Pathogenesis of Ischemic Stroke: Role of Epigenetic Mechanisms

Genes, Vol. 11, Pages 89: Pathogenesis of Ischemic Stroke: Role of Epigenetic Mechanisms Genes doi: 10.3390/genes11010089 Authors: Rosita Stanzione Maria Cotugno Franca Bianchi Simona Marchitti Maurizio Forte Massimo Volpe Speranza Rubattu Epigenetics is the branch of molecular biology that studies modifications able to change gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. Epigenetic modulations include DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNAs. These gene modifications are heritable and modifiable and can be triggered by lifestyle and nutritional factors. In recent years, epigenetic changes have been associated with the pathogenesis of several diseases such as diabetes, obesity, renal pathology, and different types of cancer. They have also been related with the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases including ischemic stroke. Importantly, since epigenetic modifications are reversible processes they could assist with the development of new therapeutic approaches for the treatment of human diseases. In the present review article, we aim to collect the most recent evidence concerning the impact of epigenetic modifications on the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke in both animal models and humans.
Source: Genes - Category: Genetics & Stem Cells Authors: Tags: Review Source Type: research