ESOC 2022 | Genetic studies are identifying factors causally associated with stroke

Cyprien Rivier, MD, MSc, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, explains the use of Mendelian Randomization as an investigative approach in stroke and how it is helping to progress the field. The technique leverages known relationships between genetic variants and certain exposures, such as lifestyle factors or the gut microbiome. The variants associated with this exposure can then be tested against a specific outcome (e.g., stroke risk or severity). In this way, conclusions can be drawn on whether an exposure if causally associated with an outcome of interest. This interview took place at the ESOC 2022 congress in Lyon, France.