The search for migraine genes: an overview of current knowledge

Abstract

Migraine is a complex familial condition that imparts a significant burden on society. There is evidence for a role of genetic factors in migraine, and elucidating the genetic basis of this disabling condition remains the focus of much research. In this review we discuss results of genetic studies to date, from the discovery of the role of neural ion channel gene mutations in familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM) to linkage analyses and candidate gene studies in the more common forms of migraine. The success of FHM regarding discovery of genetic defects associated with the disorder remains elusive in common migraine, and causative genes have not yet been identified. Thus we suggest additional approaches for analysing the genetic basis of this disorder. The continuing search for migraine genes may aid in a greater understanding of the mechanisms that underlie the disorder and potentially lead to significant diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

Association of 5-HTT gene polymorphisms with migraine: A systematic review and meta-analysis

“…Specifically, we had to exclude one published study [58] describing an association of 5-HTTLPR polymorphism with migraine, because it did not report the distribution of allele or genotype, and we were unable to obtain further data from the authors. As well, due to the complex polygenic nature of migraine, there is likely to be gene-gene interaction as well as gene-environment interactions [59]. However, only one study explored the interaction of 5-HTTLPR and 5-HT2A receptor gene 102 T/C polymorphisms [13].…”

Dementia, stroke and migraine — Some common pathological mechanisms

“…All three mutations lead directly or indirectly to increased glutamate and K + levels in the extracellular space, promoting CSD generation. It is not known whether the genes related to FHM are involved in the common forms of migraine [90] or whether these mutations lead to an increased stroke susceptibility but nevertheless, all of these mutations are related to neuronal mitochondrial function and energy production.…”

“…Besides the monogenic variant of migraine, several genes have been implicated in migraine susceptibility [90]. One group of genes is related to the neurotransmitter pathway, such as the genes encoding the dopamine D2 receptor, serotonin transporter, catechol-O-methyl transferase and dopamine β-hydroxylase.…”

Significant differences in gene expression of GABA receptors in peripheral blood leukocytes of migraineurs

“…It is more prevalent in women affecting 18.2% of females in comparison to 6.5% of males in the U.S (Lipton et al, 2001). Migraine has a strong genetic component, showing high familial aggregation (Stewart et al, 1997;Russell et al, 1996) and significant linkage to several chromosomal locations (Colson et al, 2007), including chromosomal regions on 15q11-q13 and Xq28 (Russo et al, 2005;Nyholt et al, 2000).…”