Introduction

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience a wide array of neurological, psychiatric and medical comorbidities, yet little attention has been given to the potential link between ASD and migraine, one of the most prevalent neurological disorders worldwide. This study aimed to investigate whether a genetic predisposition for ASD is linked to migraine and its major subtypes, with and without aura. Additionally, potential moderator and mediators of the association between ASD and migraine were explored. (Authors’ note)

Results

ASD PGS were significantly and positively associated with migraine (odds ratio (OR) = 1.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.02-1.05, p < 0.002), migraine without aura (OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.02-1.07, p < 0.002) and migraine with aura (OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.02-1.07, p < 0.002). No moderating effect of sex on the association between ASD PGS and migraine was observed. As for potential mediators, only the personality trait neuroticism significantly mediated the association between ASD PGS and migraine, with the proportion of effect mediated 8.75% (95% CI = 4-18%). (Authors’ note)

Table 1 - (Association between ASD PGS x Migraine)

Association between ASD PGS and Migraine
Odds ratio, 95% CI, and mediation by neuroticism
Phenotype Odds Ratio 95% CI Lower 95% CI Upper p-value Sex Moderation Neuroticism Mediator Proportion Mediated (%)
Migraine 1.04 1.02 1.05 0.002 FALSE TRUE 8.750
Migraine without aura 1.05 1.02 1.07 0.002 FALSE TRUE 8.750
Migraine with aura 1.05 1.02 1.07 0.002 FALSE TRUE 8.750

Figure 1 – Plot Integrate

Conclusions

The study suggests that individuals genetically predisposed to autism are at higher risk of experiencing migraine, including the two major subtypes, with and without aura. While emphasizing the complex shared genetic and pathophysiological interactions of these conditions, the role of personality trait neuroticism as a mediator of this relationship is highlighted. (Authors’ note)