OBJECTIVE

To assess the role of genetic polymorphisms in folate metabolism enzyme genes in the manifestation of migraine in children.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 54 children aged 7 to 18 years with clinical manifestations of migraine. The control group consisted of 115 children without neurological disorders. Genetic analysis of four polymorphic variants of folate cycle enzyme genes was conducted: MTHFR: 677C>T (A223V C677T, rs1801133); MTHFR: 1298A>C (E429A A1298C, rs1801131); MTR: 2756A>G (A2756G, rs1805087); MTRR: 66A>G (A66G, rs1801394). In addition to genetic testing, data collection included patient complaints, medical and family histories, clinical examinations, determination of vitamin B levels (B₆, B₉, B₁₂), and plasma homocysteine levels. The therapeutic effect of Cortexin (10 mg intramuscularly once daily) on the course of migraine in children was also assessed.

RESULTS

The rare homozygous 677TT genotype of the MTHFR gene was significantly more frequent in the study group (p=0.043), while the heterozygous 1298AC genotype of the MTHFR gene and the common homozygous 66AA genotype of the MTRR gene were more prevalent in the control group (p<0.05). Furthermore, levels of B vitamins (B₆, B₉, B₁₂) and plasma homocysteine were measured in both groups. Children in the study group received a 10-day course of Cortexin.

CONCLUSION

Patients with migraine showed a higher prevalence of the rare homozygous 677TT genotype of the MTHFR gene, which leads to elevated plasma homocysteine levels, often associated with latent folate deficiency. The use of «Cortexin» significantly improved the patients’ condition, reducing complaints of headaches, fatigue, and emotional instability.