Biomarkers of migraine: Part 1 - Genetic markers

Background: Migraine is a multifactorial socially significant disease affecting the peripheral and central nervous system. The diagnosis of "migraine" is still the only clinical, and additional methods of inspection are only required to avoid secondary headaches if certain "signs of danger". Accordingly, the search for biomarkers of migraine, confirming the diagnosis, rather than refuting others, is the leading vector in this scientific field.

Aim: In this paper we have analyzed the literature data on the genetic markers associated with migraine.

Methods: List of genes was compiled using Pathway Studio 10® software and abstract database ResNet12 ® made by Elsevier. Addition search (last time on 15 March 2016) was performed by using PubMed or TargetInsights. Information about 185 polymorphic loci in 98 genes associated with migraine was extracted and described.

Results: The genes associated with migraine could be classified into 8 major groups: homeostasis of blood vessels - 26.5%, metabolism of neurotransmitters - 11.2%, transport and reception of neurotransmitters - 24.5%, neurogenesis - 5.1%, inflammation - 8.2%, sex hormones - 5.1%, ion channels and membrane potential - 11.2%, other - 8.2%.

Conclusion: These findings parallel the range of mechanisms implicated in migraine pathogenesis.