Gene Linked To Rare Migraines Identified

Scientists have identified a gene that causes a rare form of migraine headache and may play a role in more common types.

Some 23 million Americans get migraines. Scientist have long known that genes play a major role, but the genes themselves have been elusive.

The new finding offers a clue to exactly what causes migraines. The gene tells the body how to make part of a gate that controls the flow of calcium into some brain cells.

The gene discovery will be reported today at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Study of Headache.