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Migraine mediates the influence of C677T MTHFR genotypes on ischemic stroke risk with a stroke-subtype effect

Alessandro Pezzini1, Mario Grassi, Elisabetta Del Zotto

  • 1Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Stroke Unit, Neurologia Vascolare, Spedali Civili di Brescia, P. le Spedali Civili, 1, 25100 Brescia, Italia. ale_pezzini@hotmail.com

Stroke
|October 27, 2007
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

The C677T MTHFR gene variant is linked to an increased migraine risk, particularly migraine with aura. This genetic factor may mediate the pathway between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase and ischemic stroke, especially in spontaneous artery dissection cases.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics and Neurology
  • Cardiovascular Research

Background:

  • The methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene, specifically the C677T polymorphism, is investigated for its potential role in neurological conditions.
  • Migraine and ischemic stroke are significant health concerns with complex underlying mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the association between the C677T MTHFR polymorphism and the pathogenesis of migraine.
  • To elucidate the role of this polymorphism in the pathway linking migraine to ischemic stroke.

Main Methods:

  • A genotype-migraine association study was conducted comparing patients with migraine with aura (MA), migraine without aura (MO), and controls.
  • Mediational models were employed to analyze the pathway from MTHFR genotype to migraine and subsequently to ischemic stroke in patients with spontaneous cervical artery dissection and non-dissection ischemic stroke.

Main Results:

  • The TT genotype of MTHFR was associated with an increased risk of MA compared to controls and MO patients.
  • Migraine and the TT genotype showed a stronger association with spontaneous cervical artery dissection-related ischemic stroke than with non-dissection ischemic stroke.

Conclusions:

  • Migraine may function as a mediator in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase-ischemic stroke pathway.
  • This mediating effect appears more pronounced in individuals experiencing spontaneous artery dissection.

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