44 genetic variants linked to migraines, 12 have never been seen before

(STUDY FINDS) – Potential new treatment avenues for migraine sufferers offer renewed hope for those plagued by these intense headaches, researchers find. Approximately one in five women, one in 16 men, and one in 11 children experience regular migraines, with women being three times more likely to suffer from these attacks.

An international study delving into the genetics of migraines is shedding new light on the biological triggers of these episodes. The research might lead to the discovery of uncommon variants that guard against migraines, offering a chance to develop new treatments, according to scientists in Iceland.

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Led by deCODE Genetics, an international team analyzed genetic data from over 1.3 million people, with 80,000 being migraine sufferers. They honed in on genetic sequence variants tied to the two primary migraine types: migraines with aura (commonly known as “classical migraines”) and those without aura. The findings emphasize several genes impacting one subtype more than the other, suggesting new biological pathways to explore for treatment.

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