Generalized Analysis of Open Genetic Databases Reveals New Associations with Migraine

Abstract

Migraine is one of the most common diseases that significantly impairs the quality of life. This condition has a pronounced genetic component. Genes responsible for the development of monogenic forms of hemiplegic migraine have already been identified, and the search for genetic associations with common migraine and its subtypes continues. The aim of this study was to search for new potential genetic markers of migraine by analyzing available open genetic databases. The analysis included databases such as ClinVar, GWAS Catalog, UK Biobank, and FinnGen. In all databases, the keyword "migraine" was used to search for migraine- associated variants. Genetic variants with clinical annotations "pathogenic" and "likely pathogenic" were selected from the variants in the ClinVar database. From other databases, variants with an association significance level of p ≤ 5×10-8 were chosen. A total of 112 genetic variants associated with migraine were identified. After excluding polymorphisms known from previous migraine studies, it was found that 45 genetic variants were identified for the first time. These variants belong to various functional groups, including ion channels, enzymes, receptors, and regulatory proteins, supporting/confirming the current understanding of the polygenic nature of migraine. Identifying new genetic associations with migraine can contribute to a better understanding of its pathogenesis and open new possibilities for diagnosis and the development of more effective treatment strategies for this condition.