Sasha Wolff [creativecommons license] via Wikimedia CommonsMigraine is a disabling disorder characterized by severe headache often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and light sensitivity. Although it is relatively common and believed to have a genetic component, little is known about its underlying causes. Current migraine treatments may offer relief to some patients, but according to Louis J. Ptáček (University of California San Francisco), “The need for better treatments is huge.” Working with Andrew C. Charles (University of California Los Angeles), Ptáček found that mutation of the gene encoding casein kinase I δ (CKIδ) is associated with migraine in two families and, furthermore, causes migraine-like symptoms in mice.
Fluent in Science