Genetic characterization of new migraine genes in multi-generation families

Several large multi-generation families with various phenotypes (including familial hemiplegic migraine) are currently studied by linkage analysis. Using positional cloning strategies the causative genes will be discovered. In these cases, candidate genes are searched for mutations.

Project-leaders: Prof. Dr. R. R. Frants, Dr. M. D. Ferrari, Dr. A. M. J. M. van den Maagdenberg

PhD students involved: Drs E.E. Kors, Drs K.R.J. Vanmolkot, Drs J.J. Hottenga

Search for new migraine genes using non-parametric linkage analysis

A large genetic study has been initiated in the genetic isolate of Costa Rica, to discover a gene for migraine with aura (severe early onset). Some 150 patients have been recruited from the Central Valley for this study already.

Project-leaders: Prof. Dr. R. R. Frants, Dr. M. D. Ferrari, Dr. A. M. J. M. van den Maagdenberg

PhD students involved: Drs E.E. Kors, Drs K.R.J. Vanmolkot, Drs J.J. Hottenga

Generation of transgenic mouse models for migraine

Using ES cell targeting transgenic mouse models are currently generated to study migraine

Project-leaders: Prof. Dr. R. R. Frants, Dr. M. D. Ferrari, Dr. A. M. J. M. van den Maagdenberg

PhD student involved: Drs. R. C. G. van de Ven

Genetic and clinical aspects of Cluster headache

A large study has been initiated to collect sporadic cluster headache (CH) patients as well as CH-families. With this material both clinical studies and genetic studies will be performed.

Project-leaders: Dr. M. D. Ferrari, Dr. J. Haan

PhD student involved: Drs. J. van Vliet

Recruitment of Patients with episodic neurological disorders

As an ongoing project, we collect patients with interesting neurological syndromes including migraine, familial hemiplegic migraine, episodic ataxia type 2, narcolepsy, cluster headache. Patients participate in various clinical and genetic studies

Project-leaders: Dr. M. D. Ferrari, Dr. J. Haan, Dr. G.M. Terwindt 

PhD students involved: Drs E.E. Kors, Drs. J. van Vliet