Scientists have found a genetic link to migraines, offering hope to millions of sufferers. They believe they have discovered genes controlling brain mechanisms which cause the headaches - opening the door to a cure.

Researchers around the world compared the DNA of sufferers with healthy people in 50,000 cases. They found patients with one particular DNA variant between two genes had a significantly higher risk of suffering migraine attacks. The genes control levels of a brain chemical called glutamate which carries messages between nerve cells and the brain.

Those with the DNA variant suffer a buildup of glutamate at nerve cell junctions. Stopping the build-up could halt the headaches. Around one in six women and one in 12 men can suffer from migraines at some point in their lives. Attacks can make sufferers feel sick or avoid bright lights.

Dr Aarno Palotie said: "This discovery opens new doors to understand common human diseases."

Source: Daily Mirror

Picture credit: Svilen Milev