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Mitochondrial DNA haplogroups influence the therapeutic response to riboflavin in migraineurs

C Di Lorenzo1, F Pierelli, G Coppola

  • 1University Centre for Adaptive Disorders and Headache, University of Rome La Sapienza, Polo Pontino-ICOT, Latina, Italy. cherub@inwind.it

Neurology
|May 6, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Migraine patients with non-H mitochondrial DNA haplogroups responded better to riboflavin treatment. This suggests a potential genetic link in riboflavin

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Genetics
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Migraine is associated with reduced mitochondrial energy metabolism.
  • High-dose riboflavin has shown preventive effects in migraine treatment.
  • Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplogroups may influence metabolic pathways.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between specific mtDNA haplogroups and therapeutic response to riboflavin in migraine patients.
  • To explore the role of haplogroup H, known for its distinct energy metabolism, in riboflavin efficacy.

Main Methods:

  • A 4-month open trial of high-dose riboflavin (400 mg QD) was conducted.
  • Sixty-four migraineurs completed the trial and were genotyped for mtDNA haplogroups.
  • Patients were categorized as responders or nonresponders based on treatment outcome.

Main Results:

  • Riboflavin responders were significantly more prevalent in the non-H mtDNA haplogroup group (67.5%).
  • Nonresponders were predominantly in the H haplogroup group (66.7%).
  • The presence of aura did not affect riboflavin effectiveness or association with specific haplogroups.

Conclusions:

  • Riboflavin appears more effective in migraine patients with non-H mitochondrial DNA haplotypes.
  • The mechanism may involve haplogroup H's association with increased Complex I activity, a target for riboflavin.
  • Findings suggest potential ethnic implications, as haplogroup H is common in Europeans.

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