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Targeting MTHFR for the treatment of migraines

Innocenzo Rainero1, Alessandro Vacca1, Fausto Roveta1

  • 1a Headache Center, Department of Neuroscience "Rita Levi Montalcini" , University of Torino , Torino , Italy.

Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Targets
|November 20, 2018
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Migraine is linked to the MTHFR gene and elevated homocysteine levels. Targeting these factors, along with B vitamins, may help prevent debilitating migraine attacks.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Genetics
  • Metabolic Disorders

Background:

  • Migraine is a debilitating neurovascular disorder influenced by genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors.
  • The Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene plays a crucial role in folate and methionine metabolism.
  • The MTHFR C677T polymorphism is a replicated genetic risk factor for migraine, associated with increased homocysteine.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent advances in the genetics of migraine.
  • To elucidate the role of the MTHFR gene and homocysteine metabolism in migraine.
  • To summarize the potential of targeting MTHFR and homocysteine for migraine prevention.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on genetic and metabolic aspects of migraine.
  • Analysis of the MTHFR gene's role in homocysteine metabolism.
  • Synthesis of current research on MTHFR and homocysteine in migraine etiopathogenesis.

Main Results:

  • Individuals with the MTHFR C677T T allele exhibit higher homocysteine, potentially causing endothelial damage.
  • Elevated homocysteine levels are implicated in the altered coagulant properties of blood in migraine patients.
  • Genetic variations in MTHFR and homocysteine metabolism are significant contributors to migraine.

Conclusions:

  • MTHFR C677T genotyping and homocysteine measurement may benefit migraine patients, especially those with aura.
  • Folate, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 show preliminary promise for migraine prevention.
  • Larger randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the efficacy of MTHFR and homocysteine-targeted interventions.
Keywords:
MTHFRfolic acidhomocysteinemigrainevitamin B12vitamin B16

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