An RNA microarray study has demonstrated specific gene expression patterns in the blood of patients who have recently experienced a transient ischemic attack (TIA). 449 genes were found to be differentially expressed between healthy controls and patients with TIA, and the expression profiles were consistent with proinflammatory and procoagulant activity in TIA. The researchers identified a panel of 34 genes that could distinguish patients with TIA from controls with 100% sensitivity and specificity.