Genetics of brain arteriovenous malformations and cerebral cavernous malformations

Cerebrovascular malformations comprise abnormal development of cerebral vasculature. They can result in hemorrhagic stroke due to rupture of lesions as well as seizures and neurological defects. The most common forms of cerebrovascular malformations are brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) and cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs). They occur in both sporadic and inherited forms. Rapidly evolving molecular genetic methodologies have helped to identify causative or associated genes involved in genesis of bAVMs and CCMs. In this review, we highlight the current knowledge regarding the genetic basis of these malformations.

Automated summary

Cerebrovascular malformations are abnormal development of cerebral vasculature that can lead to hemorrhagic stroke, seizures, and neurological defects. The most common forms are brain arteriovenous malformations and cerebral cavernous malformations, which can occur both sporadically and in inherited forms. Molecular genetic methodologies have helped to identify causative or associated genes.