A STUDY has uncovered significant genetic overlap between migraine and several gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, suggesting shared underlying neurologic mechanisms despite diverse etiologies. This research, which analyzed large-scale genome-wide data, highlights strong genetic correlations between migraine and non-immune GI conditions, particularly irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), peptic ulcer disease (PUD), and diverticular disease (DD).
The study found that the genetic correlation between migraine and IBS was particularly strong (rg = 0.37, p = 10−21), while correlations with other conditions like DD were weaker (rg = 0.18, p = 7.5 × 10−7). Notably, no significant genetic correlation was found between migraine and inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD).
Researchers identified 22 regions in the genome showing shared genetic traits, seven of which were new discoveries for either migraine, GI disorders, or both. A key finding was the involvement of the central nervous system (CNS) in the genetic overlap between migraine and conditions like GERD, IBS, and PUD. The study also highlighted a correlation between migraine and the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) pathway, which is relevant for therapeutic approaches targeting CGRP in migraine treatment.
Mendelian randomization analysis indicated that PUD, GERD, and DD might increase the risk of developing migraine, with DD showing the strongest causal relationship (OR = 1.90, p = 2.2 × 10−4). However, the reverse, migraine leading to GI disorders, was not supported.
This genetic insight opens doors to potential new treatments for both migraine and GI conditions, with repurposed migraine therapies targeting CGRP showing promise.
Reference: Chasman DI et al. Shared Genetics of Migraine and Gastrointestinal Disorders Implicates Underlying Neurologic Mechanisms Yet Heterogeneous Etiologies. Neurol Genet. 2024;10(6).
Anaya Malik | AMJ
