Epigenetic Regulation of Stroke

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability throughout the world. Despite this, neither the etiology nor the pathophysiology of stroke is well understood. However, epigenetic regulation of key molecular mechanisms implicated both pre- and post-stroke may impact stroke risk, severity, options for therapeutic intervention, recovery, and mortality. In the current chapter, we discuss the epigenetic regulation of ischemic stroke, focusing on histone modifications, DNA methylation, microRNAs (miRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), and long noncoding NRAs (lncRNAs). First, the mechanism of action of each epigenetic regulatory function is explained, and then each is considered within the context of stroke. As stroke incidence is higher in women than men, we also discuss sex differences in epigenetic regulation where applicable. Additionally, we discuss the controversial role of autophagic regulation in stroke with a key focus on how each epigenetic mechanism may impact autophagy activation and execution. Finally, we conclude with a call to action, pointing out key gaps in the literature that warrant further investigation.