Molecular Biomarkers Affecting Moyamoya Disease

Although the pathogenetic pathway of moyamoya disease (MMD) remains unknown, studies have indicated that variations in the RING finger protein RNF 213 is the strongest susceptible gene of MMD. In addition to the polymorphism of this gene, many circulating angiogenetic factors such as growth factors, vascular progenitor cells, inflammatory and immune mediators, angiogenesis related cytokines, as well as circulating proteins promoting intimal hyperplasia, excessive collateral formation, smooth muscle migration and atypical migration may also play critical roles in producing this disease. Identification of these circulating molecules biomarkers may be used for the early detection of this disease. In this chapter, how the hypothesized pathophysiology of these factors affect MMD and the interactive modulation between them are summarized.