Association of and Gene Polymorphisms with High-Altitude Headache in Chinese Han Population.

BACKGROUND

High-altitude headache (HAH) is the most common complication after high-altitude exposure. Hypoxia-inducible factor- (HIF-) related genes have been confirmed to contribute to high-altitude acclimatization. We aim to investigate a possible association between HIF-related genes and HAH in the Chinese Han population.

METHODS

In total, 580 healthy Chinese Han volunteers were recruited in Chengdu (500 m) and carried to Lhasa (3700 m) by plane in 2 hours. HAH scores and basic physiological parameters were collected within 18-24 hours after the arrival. Thirty-five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in HIF-related genes were genotyped, and linkage disequilibrium (LD) was evaluated by Haploview software. The functions of SNPs/haplotypes for HAH were developed by using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

In comparison with wild types, the rs4953354 "G" allele (=0.013), rs6756667 "A" allele (=0.013), rs6756667 "A" allele (, and rs6520015 "C" allele in (=0.013), rs6756667 "A" allele ( (=0.013), rs6756667 "A" allele (, and rs6520015 "C" allele in (=0.013), rs6756667 "A" allele (.

CONCLUSIONS

and polymorphisms were associated with HAH in the Chinese Han population. Our findings pointed out potentially predictive gene markers, provided new insights into understanding pathogenesis, and may further provide prophylaxis and treatment strategies for HAH., and rs6520015 "C" allele in (.