Genetic variants in BDNF (rs6265 and rs11030119) and stroke susceptibility: a case-control analysis in South India.

Background: Stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the cerebral cortex is blocked, depriving it of oxygen and glucose, leading to cell death. It is a multifactorial disorder influenced by genetic, vascular, and environmental factors.

Aim: This study investigated the association between two polymorphisms of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene, rs6265 and rs11030119, and stroke risk in a South Indian population.

Subjects and methods: The study included 163 stroke cases and 160 healthy controls. Genomic DNA was extracted, and genotyping of rs6265 and rs11030119 polymorphisms was done using ARMS-PCR. Allelic and genotype frequencies were calculated, and odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were determined using SPSS version 21.0.

Results: The rs6265 polymorphism was significantly associated with stroke risk, with the GG genotype more frequent in controls (OR 1.79, 95% CI 1.05-1.76, p = 0.01). The rs11030119 polymorphism showed a positive association, with the AA genotype more prevalent in cases (OR 2.70, 95% CI 1.34-5.44, p = 0.003).

Conclusion: This study suggests an association between BDNF polymorphisms (rs6265, rs11030119) and stroke risk in a South Indian population. Further research in larger populations is necessary to confirm these findings and explore the mechanisms involved.