Chrna7 gene copy number variations (CNV), gene expression, and migraine risk

Migraine is a common headache disorder typically characterized by recurrent episodes of headache, impairment of function and loss of work productivity, and it needs to be treated. Although several theories have been proposed to date, neuroinflammation has been mostly implicated in the etiopathogenesis of migraine. The CHRNA7 gene encodes alpha (α)-7 subunit of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. Previous studies have demonstrated that the gene product of CHRNA7 has anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the underlying genetic mechanism of CHRNA7 gene copy number variations (CNVs) and gene expression in migraine patients based on the subjective parameters and biomarkers to gain a better understanding of the relationship between the CHRNA7 gene and migraine. This study included a total of 102 patients with migraine and 120 healthy individuals at Gaziantep University, Faculty of Medicine, Neurology outpatient clinic. Blood samples were collected at the Medical Biology Laboratory, and CHRNA7 gene and CNV-expression association analyses were performed in lymphocytes. The status of CNVs and the effect of the related gene on gene expression were examined along with clinical findings. Compared to healthy controls, there was a significant correlation between the decreased and increased CNVs and development of migraine in the patient group (P<0.05). However, there was no statistically significant correlation between the level of CHRNA7 gene expression and CNVs, indicating that clinical parameters might affect the gene expression, although no direct effect on the CNVs was observed. In conclusion, this study is valuable, as it provides a basis for migraine development and gains an insight into the genetic mechanism of migraine. Based on these findings, we can suggest that the CNV within the normal range is of utmost importance to develop treatment strategies to improve the quality of life and daily living activities of individuals with migraine. Anahtar kelimeler: Migraine, inflammation, Chrna7, CNV