Keerthana Sridhar

Uncovering Novel Genetic Markers of Vestibular Migraine: A Bioinformatics Approach

Started Oct. 24, 2024

Abstract or project description

Over 1 billion people worldwide are affected by migraines, with the vestibular migraine being one of the most disabling subtypes¹. Despite its prevalence, the genetic factors that predispose migraines remain poorly understood. This study aims to explore the genetic susceptibility to vestibular migraine using bioinformatics tools to analyze RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) data. The gene expression profiles were extracted from the genomes from 6 migraine patients and 6 control subjects to identify main upregulated and downregulated genes related to this condition. Using DESeq2 and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), significant gene pathways and their potential roles in this disease were analyzed. Notably, genes such as CARS1, CDH8, and NOMO1 were identified as key contributors, along with enriched pathways like KEGG_T_CELL_RECEPTOR_SIGNALING_PATHWAY and PID_KIT_PATHWAY, which provide new information into the molecular mechanisms of vestibular migraines. By focusing on the molecular causes of vestibular migraine, this research leads to a better understanding of its genetic basis, providing possible targets for future therapeutic strategies. Ultimately, this study highlights the importance of bioinformatics in decoding complex genetic diseases and advancing medicine.