Models of cerebral amyloid angiopathy-related intracerebral hemorrhage

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is a cerebrovascular disease with vascular amyloid-β deposits and is commonly observed among the elderly. Often associated with Alzheimer’s disease, CAA is among the leading causes of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and age-related cognitive decline. Several research studies have tried to understand the mechanisms underlying CAA, but further use of in vivo models is needed to fully understand its pathophysiology. In this review, we provide information gathered from key findings dealing with the mechanisms of beta deposition in cerebral arteries, the diagnosis of different CAA types, and advances in treatment for CAA. Since CAA is a risk factor for ICH, we also review previously used in vivo and in vitro models of CAA and their features with respect to CAA-related ICH. Currently available transgenic mouse models of CAA show a limited occurrence of hemorrhage at variable locations, which often do not produce any obvious neurological deficits. Thus, the development of novel models to more closely mimic the clinical condition of CAA-related ICH is warranted.