Much work remains, however, before such goals can be realized. This article explains some of the difficulties involved in genetic research in migraine and summarizes the progress made to date.
T here is little doubt that migraine has a genetic component.
Ideally, this knowledge could assist in migraine diagnosis and treatment. For example, if the gene or genes responsible for migraine could be identified, tests could be designed to identify those at greatest risk at an early stage, and steps might be taken to prevent migraine from developing. A migraine gene or genes also could be targeted for specific treatments that might reduce the severity of the disorder or eliminate it altogether. Most importantly, identifying the function of migraine genes may ultimately elucidate the mechanisms that cause migraine. Unfortunately, the genetics of migraine is far from straightforward.