Are Migraines Hereditary?

Check out this answer from Consensus:

Migraines have a substantial hereditary component, with both monogenic and polygenic forms contributing to their prevalence. Advances in genetic research have elucidated key genes and pathways involved in migraine pathogenesis, offering new avenues for diagnosis and treatment. Continued research into the genetic and epigenetic factors influencing migraines will enhance our understanding of this complex disorder and improve outcomes for individuals affected by migraines.

Migraines are a prevalent and debilitating neurological disorder characterized by severe headaches often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. The hereditary nature of migraines has been a subject of extensive research, with numerous studies indicating a significant genetic component. This article explores the genetic basis of migraines, examining both monogenic and polygenic forms, and the implications for diagnosis and treatment.

Genetic Basis of Migraines

Monogenic Forms of Migraine

Familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM) is a rare, severe form of migraine with a clear autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. Research has identified mutations in three key genes associated with FHM: CACNA1A, ATP1A2, and SCN1A. These genes encode ion transporters, and their mutations disrupt ion and neurotransmitter balances in the brain, leading to neuronal hyperexcitability and a lower threshold for cortical spreading depression, a phenomenon implicated in migraine pathogenesis1 4 5 7 9.

Polygenic Forms of Migraine

Common forms of migraine, including migraine with aura (MA) and migraine without aura (MO), exhibit a more complex inheritance pattern, likely involving multiple genetic loci. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with migraine susceptibility. Notable loci include PRDM16, TRPM8, and LRP1, which are implicated in neuronal and vascular functions5 6 8 9.

Epigenetic and Environmental Factors

In addition to genetic predisposition, epigenetic mechanisms and environmental factors play crucial roles in migraine pathogenesis. Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone modification, can influence gene expression and contribute to the development of migraines. Environmental triggers, including stress, hormonal changes, and dietary factors, can interact with genetic susceptibility to precipitate migraine attacks2 8 10.

Comorbidities and Shared Genetic Susceptibility

Migraines often co-occur with other neurological and systemic conditions, suggesting shared genetic and pathophysiological mechanisms. For instance, studies have shown a genetic overlap between migraines and conditions such as ischemic stroke, endometriosis, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These comorbidities highlight the complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors in migraine pathogenesis3 5 9.

Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment

Understanding the genetic basis of migraines has significant implications for diagnosis and treatment. Genetic testing can aid in the identification of individuals at risk for severe forms of migraine, such as FHM, and guide personalized treatment strategies. Moreover, insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying migraines can inform the development of targeted therapies aimed at modulating specific genetic pathways involved in migraine pathogenesis1 4 7 9.

Are migraines hereditary?

Fayyaz Ahmed has answered Near Certain

An expert from Hull York Medical School in Neurology

They are for definite. That is the only thing we know that migraine runs in the family and patients get this from their parents. There are few genes discovered and there is hunt for other genes which may be found later.

Are migraines hereditary?

Amanda Ellison has answered Likely

An expert from Durham University in Psychology, Neuroscience

Some forms are. For example, hemiplegic, or familial, migraine is linked to a non-sex chromosome (autosomal) dominant gene, meaning that you only need one parent to have the altered gene to pass it on. Even though you may have the gene however, it might never be switched on. Patients experience extreme muscle weakness or pins and needles down half their head, face or body that can border or tip into paralysis with symptoms similar to that of a stroke, albeit temporarily.

Are migraines hereditary?

Janet Bultitude has answered Likely

An expert from University of Bath in Psychology

Twin studies show that migraine does have a genetic link, but it is not completely certain that children of people who get migraines will themselves go on to experience migraines.