Investigating the shared genetic architecture between anxiety and stroke.

BACKGROUND

An epidemiological association between anxiety and stroke is well-established; however, the role of shared genetic factors remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the shared genetic architecture between anxiety and stroke.

METHODS

Using public genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics of anxiety and stroke, we performed linkage disequilibrium score regression and super genetic covariance analyzer for global and local genetic correlation studies. Risk single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified through genome-wide association meta-analysis, multi-trait analysis of GWAS and PLINK, followed by functional mapping and annotation. Additionally, we conducted transcriptome-wide association studies to explore the relationship between genes and associated disease risk.

RESULTS

Our analysis revealed a significant genome-wide genetic correlation between anxiety and stroke. We also identified one previously unreported significant SNP (rs62099231), one risk loci, as well as identified three shared risk genes for anxiety and stroke (WDR6, CCDC71, NCKIPSD).

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated a shared genetic structure between anxiety and stroke, enhancing our understanding of their pathogenesis and highlighting potential therapeutic targets.