International Journal of Molecular Sciences (Jun 2024)

Molecular Pathogenesis of Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Strokes: Background and Therapeutic Approaches

  • Carlo Domenico Maida,
  • Rosario Luca Norrito,
  • Salvatore Rizzica,
  • Marco Mazzola,
  • Elisa Rita Scarantino,
  • Antonino Tuttolomondo

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25126297
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 25, no. 12
p. 6297

Abstract

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Stroke represents one of the neurological diseases most responsible for death and permanent disability in the world. Different factors, such as thrombus, emboli and atherosclerosis, take part in the intricate pathophysiology of stroke. Comprehending the molecular processes involved in this mechanism is crucial to developing new, specific and efficient treatments. Some common mechanisms are excitotoxicity and calcium overload, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. Furthermore, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are critical in pathophysiology and recovery after cerebral ischemia. ncRNAs, particularly microRNAs, and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are essential for angiogenesis and neuroprotection, and they have been suggested to be therapeutic, diagnostic and prognostic tools in cerebrovascular diseases, including stroke. This review summarizes the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke and delves into the function of miRNAs in the development of brain damage. Furthermore, we will analyze new perspectives on treatment based on molecular mechanisms in addition to traditional stroke therapies.

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