MTHFR Gene Variant and Migraine: A Study and Meta-analysis
Author Information
Author(s): Samaan Zainab, Gaysina Daria, Cohen-Woods Sarah, Craddock Nick, Jones Lisa, Korszun Ania, Owen Mike, Mente Andrew, McGuffin Peter, Farmer Anne
Primary Institution: McMaster University
Hypothesis
The MTHFR C677T polymorphism is a migraine gene and the association with depression is due to the presence of migraine in the individuals studied.
Conclusion
The MTHFR C677T variant is associated with migraine with aura, particularly in individuals with depression.
Supporting Evidence
- MTHFR C677T polymorphism was associated with migraine with aura (MA) with an odds ratio of 1.31.
- A meta-analysis of 15 studies showed T allele homozygosity is significantly associated with MA.
- The association with total migraine was also significant with an odds ratio of 1.37.
- In non-Caucasian populations, the TT genotype was associated with total migraine with an odds ratio of 3.46.
- Women were more likely to have migraine and individuals with migraine were more likely to be depressed.
Takeaway
People with a specific gene variant are more likely to have a type of migraine that comes with visual symptoms. This is especially true for those who also have depression.
Methodology
A case-control study was conducted with 447 individuals with migraine and a meta-analysis of 15 studies was performed.
Potential Biases
The recruitment of participants was focused on those with depression, potentially skewing results.
Limitations
The study was designed to select depressed cases, which may have led to ascertainment bias.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily Caucasian individuals from the UK.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.039
Confidence Interval
1.01-1.70
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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