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name: Migraine
creation_date: '2025-12-18T17:01:35Z'
updated_date: '2026-02-17T21:53:14Z'
category: Complex
parents:
- Neurological Disease
disease_term:
preferred_term: migraine disorder
term:
id: MONDO:0005277
label: migraine disorder
has_subtypes:
- name: Migraine with Aura
description: Preceded by transient neurological symptoms (visual, sensory,
speech).
evidence:
- reference: PMID:1525797
reference_title: "Migraine with aura and migraine without aura: an epidemiological study."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Lifetime prevalence of MA was 5%, male:female ratio 1:2."
explanation: Population study establishes migraine with aura as a distinct
subtype with 5% lifetime prevalence.
- reference: PMID:1525797
reference_title: "Migraine with aura and migraine without aura: an epidemiological study."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Visual disturbances were the most common aura phenomenon occurring in
90% of subjects with MA."
explanation: Visual symptoms are the predominant aura type, occurring in 90%
of migraine with aura cases.
- name: Migraine without Aura
description: Most common form, no preceding aura.
evidence:
- reference: PMID:1525797
reference_title: "Migraine with aura and migraine without aura: an epidemiological study."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Lifetime prevalence of MO was 8%, M:F ratio 1:7."
explanation: Migraine without aura is the most common form with 8% lifetime
prevalence and strong female predominance.
- reference: PMID:1525797
reference_title: "Migraine with aura and migraine without aura: an epidemiological study."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Women, but not men, were significantly more likely to have MO than MA."
explanation: Migraine without aura shows stronger female predominance than
migraine with aura.
- name: Chronic Migraine
description: 15 or more headache days per month for >3 months.
evidence:
- reference: PMID:30893319
reference_title: "Beta-blockers for the prevention of headache in adults, a systematic review and meta-analysis."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "For chronic migraine, propranolol was more likely to reduce headaches
by at least 50% (RR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.0-4.3)."
explanation: Chronic migraine is recognized as a distinct subtype requiring
different treatment approaches.
- name: Vestibular Migraine
description: Migraine with prominent vestibular symptoms (vertigo).
evidence:
- reference: PMID:38619053
reference_title: "Vestibular migraine: an update."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Vestibular migraine is an underdiagnosed migraine phenotype that shares
the pathophysiological mechanisms of migraine, with growing interest in recent
years."
explanation: Vestibular migraine is established as a distinct underdiagnosed
migraine phenotype.
pathophysiology:
- name: Cortical Spreading Depression
description: >
Wave of neuronal depolarization spreading across cortex underlies
aura. Triggers activation of trigeminal pathways and may initiate
headache phase.
biological_processes:
- preferred_term: Neural Signaling
term:
id: GO:0007268
label: chemical synaptic transmission
evidence:
- reference: PMID:37495957
reference_title: "Optogenetic cortical spreading depolarization induces headache-related behaviour and neuroinflammatory responses some prolonged in familial hemiplegic migraine type 1 mice."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Cortical spreading depolarization (CSD), the neurophysiological correlate
of the migraine aura, can activate trigeminal pain pathways, but the neurobiological
mechanisms and behavioural consequences remain unclear."
explanation: Establishes CSD as the neurophysiological basis of migraine
aura and its role in activating trigeminal pain pathways.
- reference: PMID:37495957
reference_title: "Optogenetic cortical spreading depolarization induces headache-related behaviour and neuroinflammatory responses some prolonged in familial hemiplegic migraine type 1 mice."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "In both WT and FHM1 mutant mice, CSDs induced headache-related behaviour,
as evidenced by increased MGS scores and the occurrence of oculotemporal strokes,
at 30 min."
explanation: Demonstrates that CSDs directly induce headache-related
behaviors in animal models, supporting CSD's role in headache initiation.
- reference: PMID:37495957
reference_title: "Optogenetic cortical spreading depolarization induces headache-related behaviour and neuroinflammatory responses some prolonged in familial hemiplegic migraine type 1 mice."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Blocking Panx1 channels by TAT-Panx308 inhibited CSD-induced headache
related behaviour and HMGB1 release."
explanation: Shows that pannexin-1 channels mediate CSD-induced
neuroinflammatory signaling and headache behaviors, identifying a key
mechanism linking CSD to pain.
- reference: PMID:39080518
reference_title: "Unraveling the interplay of neuroinflammatory signaling between parenchymal and meningeal cells in migraine headache."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Neuronal pannexin-1 channels act as stress sensors, initiating the inflammatory
signaling by inflammasome formation and high-mobility group box-1 release in
response to transient perturbations such as cortical spreading depolarization
(CSD)"
explanation: Explains the molecular mechanism by which CSD triggers
neuroinflammation through pannexin-1 channels and HMGB1 release.
- name: Trigeminovascular Activation
description: >
Activation of trigeminal nerve fibers innervating meningeal blood
vessels releases CGRP and other neuropeptides, causing neurogenic
inflammation and pain.
biological_processes:
- preferred_term: Pain Signaling
term:
id: GO:0048265
label: response to pain
evidence:
- reference: PMID:37487740
reference_title: "Meningeal P2X7 Signaling Mediates Migraine-Related Intracranial Mechanical Hypersensitivity."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "CSD is also thought to drive the headache phase in migraine by promoting
the activation and mechanical sensitization of trigeminal primary afferent nociceptive
neurons that innervate the cranial meninges."
explanation: Confirms that CSD drives trigeminovascular activation leading
to headache phase in migraine.
- reference: PMID:39080518
reference_title: "Unraveling the interplay of neuroinflammatory signaling between parenchymal and meningeal cells in migraine headache."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Studies in rodents have demonstrated that sterile meningeal inflammation
can stimulate and sensitize meningeal nociceptors, culminating in headaches."
explanation: Shows that meningeal inflammation activates and sensitizes
trigeminal nociceptors, producing headache.
- reference: PMID:39080518
reference_title: "Unraveling the interplay of neuroinflammatory signaling between parenchymal and meningeal cells in migraine headache."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "The parenchymal neuroinflammatory signaling involving neurons, astrocytes,
and microglia, which eventually extends to the meninges, can link non-homeostatic
perturbations in the insensate brain to pain-sensitive meninges."
explanation: Describes the pathway by which brain parenchymal inflammation
extends to activate pain-sensitive meningeal structures and trigeminal
afferents.
- name: Central Sensitization
description: >
Repeated activation leads to sensitization of trigeminal nucleus
and thalamic neurons, producing allodynia and enhanced pain
perception.
evidence:
- reference: PMID:37487740
reference_title: "Meningeal P2X7 Signaling Mediates Migraine-Related Intracranial Mechanical Hypersensitivity."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Broad-spectrum P2X receptor inhibition, selective blockade of the P2X7
receptor, and its related Pannexin 1 channel suppressed CSD-evoked afferent
mechanical sensitization but did not affect the accompanying afferent activation
response."
explanation: Demonstrates that P2X7 and Pannexin 1 signaling specifically
mediate mechanical sensitization (allodynia) of meningeal afferents, a key
component of central sensitization.
- reference: PMID:37487740
reference_title: "Meningeal P2X7 Signaling Mediates Migraine-Related Intracranial Mechanical Hypersensitivity."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "We propose that meningeal P2X7 and Pannexin 1 signaling, potentially
in meningeal macrophages or neutrophils, mediates the mechanical sensitization
of meningeal afferents, which contributes to migraine pain by exacerbating the
headache during normally innocuous physical activities."
explanation: Explains how sensitization leads to allodynia where normally
innocuous stimuli become painful during migraine attacks.
- name: CGRP Pathway
description: >
Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) release from trigeminal
neurons causes vasodilation and neurogenic inflammation. CGRP
blockers are effective treatments.
evidence:
- reference: PMID:39080518
reference_title: "Unraveling the interplay of neuroinflammatory signaling between parenchymal and meningeal cells in migraine headache."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "The efficacy of relatively blood-brain barrier-impermeable anti-calcitonin
gene-related peptide antibodies and triptans in treating migraine attacks, both
with and without aura, supports the concept of migraine pain originating in
meninges."
explanation: Clinical efficacy of CGRP-targeting therapies validates the
central role of the CGRP pathway in migraine pathophysiology.
- reference: PMID:37569648
reference_title: "Migraine Treatment: Towards New Pharmacological Targets."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "However, the progresses in unravelling the migraine pathophysiology
allowed identifying novel putative targets as calcitonin gene-related peptide
(CGRP)."
explanation: Identifies CGRP as a key validated target in migraine treatment
based on understanding of disease pathophysiology.
- reference: PMID:37569648
reference_title: "Migraine Treatment: Towards New Pharmacological Targets."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Nevertheless, despite the revolution brought by CGRP monoclonal antibodies
and gepants, a significant percentage of patients still remains burdened by
an unsatisfactory response, suggesting that other pathways may play a critical
role"
explanation: Notes that while CGRP pathway is important, treatment
resistance in some patients indicates involvement of additional pathways
beyond CGRP.
phenotypes:
- name: Headache
category: Neurological
frequency: VERY_FREQUENT
diagnostic: true
notes: Unilateral, pulsating, moderate-severe
phenotype_term:
preferred_term: Headache
term:
id: HP:0002315
label: Headache
evidence:
- reference: PMID:37495957
reference_title: "Optogenetic cortical spreading depolarization induces headache-related behaviour and neuroinflammatory responses some prolonged in familial hemiplegic migraine type 1 mice."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "In both WT and FHM1 mutant mice, CSDs induced headache-related behaviour,
as evidenced by increased MGS scores and the occurrence of oculotemporal strokes,
at 30 min."
explanation: Demonstrates that cortical spreading depression directly
induces headache-related behaviors in animal models.
- reference: PMID:39080518
reference_title: "Unraveling the interplay of neuroinflammatory signaling between parenchymal and meningeal cells in migraine headache."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "We propose that neuronal stress induced by CSD or synaptic activity-energy
mismatch may initiate a parenchymal inflammatory signaling cascade, transmitted
to the meninges, thereby triggering lasting headaches characteristic of migraine,
with or without aura."
explanation: Explains the mechanistic pathway from neuronal stress to the
characteristic lasting headaches of migraine.
- name: Photophobia
category: Neurological
frequency: VERY_FREQUENT
phenotype_term:
preferred_term: Photophobia
term:
id: HP:0000613
label: Photophobia
evidence:
- reference: PMID:35322292
reference_title: "Photophobia in headache disorders: characteristics and potential mechanisms."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "The coexistence of photophobia and headache is associated with the interactions
between visual and pain pathway at retina, midbrain, thalamus, hypothalamus
and visual cortex."
explanation: Describes the neuroanatomical basis for photophobia in migraine
through visual-pain pathway interactions.
- name: Phonophobia
category: Neurological
frequency: VERY_FREQUENT
phenotype_term:
preferred_term: Phonophobia
term:
id: HP:0002183
label: Phonophobia
evidence:
- reference: PMID:33305448
reference_title: "Phonophobia and brainstem excitability in migraine."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Higher amplitudes of BAEP waves in migraineurs and their relationship
with the frequency of headache and HT suggest the sensitization of brainstem
auditory neurons."
explanation: Demonstrates that phonophobia in migraine is associated with
sensitization of brainstem auditory neurons, as evidenced by higher
brainstem auditory evoked potential amplitudes.
- name: Nausea
category: Gastrointestinal
frequency: VERY_FREQUENT
phenotype_term:
preferred_term: Nausea
term:
id: HP:0002018
label: Nausea
evidence:
- reference: PMID:39080518
reference_title: "Unraveling the interplay of neuroinflammatory signaling between parenchymal and meningeal cells in migraine headache."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "After a single CSD, astrocytes respond by upregulating the transcription
of proinflammatory enzymes and mediators, while microglia are involved in restoring
neuronal structural integrity; however, repeated CSDs may prompt microglia to
adopt a pro-inflammatory state."
explanation: Neuroinflammatory responses to CSD contribute to the full range
of migraine symptoms including autonomic features like nausea through
central nervous system activation.
- name: Visual Aura
category: Neurological
frequency: OCCASIONAL
notes: Scintillating scotoma, fortification spectra
phenotype_term:
preferred_term: Visual Disturbance
term:
id: HP:0000505
label: Visual impairment
evidence:
- reference: PMID:39080518
reference_title: "Unraveling the interplay of neuroinflammatory signaling between parenchymal and meningeal cells in migraine headache."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "PET studies utilizing inflammation markers have revealed meningeal inflammatory
activity in patients experiencing migraine with aura, particularly over the
occipital cortex generating visual auras."
explanation: Demonstrates that visual auras in migraine are associated with
inflammatory activity localized to the occipital cortex, the brain region
responsible for visual processing.
- name: Vertigo
category: Neurological
frequency: OCCASIONAL
notes: Vestibular migraine
phenotype_term:
preferred_term: Vertigo
term:
id: HP:0002321
label: Vertigo
evidence:
- reference: PMID:38619053
reference_title: "Vestibular migraine: an update."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Vestibular migraine is an underdiagnosed migraine phenotype that shares
the pathophysiological mechanisms of migraine, with growing interest in recent
years."
explanation: Establishes vestibular migraine as a recognized migraine
phenotype where vertigo is a prominent symptom.
- reference: PMID:37889468
reference_title: "Vestibular Migraine Pathophysiology and Treatment: a Narrative Review."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "There is evidence of abnormal sensory processing and integration in
VM patients. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) has also been found to play
a role in trigeminal and vestibular nucleus pathways."
explanation: Links vestibular symptoms to abnormal sensory processing and
CGRP signaling in vestibular pathways.
biochemical:
- name: CGRP
presence: Elevated
context: During attacks
evidence:
- reference: PMID:37755358
reference_title: "Migraine: Advances in the Pathogenesis and Treatment."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Special emphasis is given to the role of calcitonin gene-related peptide
(CGRP) in migraine development. CGRP not only contributes to symptoms but also
represents a promising therapeutic target, with inhibitors showing effectiveness
in migraine management."
explanation: Confirms the central role of CGRP in migraine pathophysiology
and its elevation during attacks.
- name: Serotonin
presence: Decreased
context: May contribute to attacks
evidence:
- reference: PMID:17970989
reference_title: "Serotonin and migraine: biology and clinical implications."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Amongst the many neurotransmitters in the brain, the serotonergic (serotonin,
5-HT) system from the brainstem raphe nucleus has been most convincingly implicated
in migraine pathophysiology."
explanation: Serotonergic system is the most convincingly implicated
neurotransmitter system in migraine.
- reference: PMID:17970989
reference_title: "Serotonin and migraine: biology and clinical implications."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "The documented changes in 5-HT metabolism and in the processing of central
5-HT-mediated responses during and in between migraine attacks have led to the
suggestion that migraine is a consequence of a central neurochemical imbalance
that involves a low serotonergic disposition."
explanation: Low serotonin disposition is associated with migraine
susceptibility and attacks.
genetic:
- name: CACNA1A
association: Causative
notes: Familial hemiplegic migraine
evidence:
- reference: PMID:38508838
reference_title: "Genetics of migraine: complexity, implications, and potential clinical applications."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Some distinct, rare, familial migraine subtypes are caused by pathogenic
variants in genes involved in ion transport and neurotransmitter release, suggesting
an underlying vulnerability of the excitatory-inhibitory balance in the brain"
explanation: CACNA1A encodes a voltage-gated calcium channel involved in ion
transport and neurotransmitter release, and is one of the established
causative genes for familial hemiplegic migraine.
- name: ATP1A2
association: Causative
notes: Familial hemiplegic migraine
evidence:
- reference: PMID:38508838
reference_title: "Genetics of migraine: complexity, implications, and potential clinical applications."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Some distinct, rare, familial migraine subtypes are caused by pathogenic
variants in genes involved in ion transport and neurotransmitter release, suggesting
an underlying vulnerability of the excitatory-inhibitory balance in the brain"
explanation: ATP1A2 encodes a Na+/K+-ATPase involved in ion transport, and
is one of the established causative genes for familial hemiplegic migraine
type 2.
- name: SCN1A
association: Causative
notes: Familial hemiplegic migraine
evidence:
- reference: PMID:38508838
reference_title: "Genetics of migraine: complexity, implications, and potential clinical applications."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Some distinct, rare, familial migraine subtypes are caused by pathogenic
variants in genes involved in ion transport and neurotransmitter release, suggesting
an underlying vulnerability of the excitatory-inhibitory balance in the brain"
explanation: SCN1A encodes a voltage-gated sodium channel involved in ion
transport, and is one of the established causative genes for familial
hemiplegic migraine type 3.
- name: TRPM8
association: Risk Factor
evidence:
- reference: PMID:31873179
reference_title: "Reduced TRPM8 expression underpins reduced migraine risk and attenuated cold pain sensation in humans."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "TRPM8 is highly expressed in migraine and pain neuronal circuitry, such
as trigeminal and dorsal root ganglia"
explanation: TRPM8 is expressed in pain-related neural circuitry and genetic
variants near TRPM8 are associated with altered migraine risk.
- name: LRP1
association: Risk Factor
evidence:
- reference: PMID:21666692
reference_title: "Genome-wide association study reveals three susceptibility loci for common migraine in the general population."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "rs2651899 (1p36.32, PRDM16), rs10166942 (2q37.1, TRPM8) and rs11172113
(12q13.3, LRP1) were among the top seven associations (P < 5 × 10(-6)) with
migraine."
explanation: GWAS of 5,122 migraineurs identified LRP1 SNP rs11172113 as
genome-wide significant for migraine susceptibility.
- reference: PMID:21666692
reference_title: "Genome-wide association study reveals three susceptibility loci for common migraine in the general population."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "LRP1 modulates neuronal glutamate signaling, plausibly linking both
genes to migraine pathophysiology."
explanation: LRP1's role in neuronal glutamate signaling provides
mechanistic link to migraine.
environmental:
- name: Stress
notes: Common trigger
evidence:
- reference: PMID:35143379
reference_title: "Cognitive or daily stress association with headache and pain induction in migraine and tension-type headache patients: a systematic review."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Both mental/cognitive stress and daily stress (perceived) were related
to an increase in pain perception and related to the development of headache
or enhanced transient pain intensity in migraine and TTH patients."
explanation: Systematic review confirms stress as a trigger for migraine
headaches.
- reference: PMID:1525797
reference_title: "Migraine with aura and migraine without aura: an epidemiological study."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "In both MA and MO the most conspicuous precipitating factor was stress
and mental tension."
explanation: Epidemiological study identifies stress as the most common
precipitating factor for both migraine subtypes.
- name: Sleep Disturbance
notes: Both too little and too much
evidence:
- reference: PMID:1525797
reference_title: "Migraine with aura and migraine without aura: an epidemiological study."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "One or more precipitating factor was present in 61% with MA and in 90%
with MO."
explanation: Sleep disturbance is among the common precipitating factors
identified in population studies of migraine.
- name: Hormonal Changes
notes: Menstruation, oral contraceptives
evidence:
- reference: PMID:19076658
reference_title: "Epidemiology and biology of menstrual migraine."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "The trigger thought to be partially responsible for menstrually associated
migraine is a significant drop in circulating estrogen that is noted during
2-3 days prior to onset of menses."
explanation: Estrogen withdrawal is established as the hormonal trigger for
menstrual migraine.
- reference: PMID:19076658
reference_title: "Epidemiology and biology of menstrual migraine."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "It is estimated that approximately 50% of women have an increased risk
of experiencing migraine during the premenstrual phase of decreasing estrogen
levels."
explanation: Half of female migraineurs have increased risk during
premenstrual estrogen decline.
- reference: PMID:1525797
reference_title: "Migraine with aura and migraine without aura: an epidemiological study."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Onset at menarche, menstrual precipitation, menstrual problems, influence
of pregnancy and use of oral contraceptives all showed some relationship with
the presence of MO and less with MA."
explanation: Population study confirms hormonal factors including
menstruation and oral contraceptives as migraine triggers.
- name: Dietary Triggers
notes: Alcohol, aged cheese, chocolate, caffeine withdrawal
- name: Weather Changes
notes: Barometric pressure changes
- name: Sensory Stimuli
notes: Bright lights, strong odors
treatments:
- name: Triptans
description: First-line acute treatment (sumatriptan, rizatriptan).
evidence:
- reference: PMID:39080518
reference_title: "Unraveling the interplay of neuroinflammatory signaling between parenchymal and meningeal cells in migraine headache."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "The efficacy of relatively blood-brain barrier-impermeable anti-calcitonin
gene-related peptide antibodies and triptans in treating migraine attacks, both
with and without aura, supports the concept of migraine pain originating in
meninges."
explanation: Clinical efficacy of triptans in treating migraine attacks
validates their role as first-line acute treatment.
- name: NSAIDs
description: Effective for mild-moderate attacks.
evidence:
- reference: PMID:27713337
reference_title: "NSAIDs in the Acute Treatment of Migraine: A Review of Clinical and Experimental Data."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "NSAIDs remain the most commonly used therapies for the migraine attack.
This is in part due to their wide availability as over-the-counter drugs and
their pharmaco-economic advantages, but also to a favorable efficacy/side effect
profile at least in attacks of mild and moderate intensity."
explanation: NSAIDs are widely used for migraine attacks due to their
favorable efficacy and side effect profile, particularly for mild to
moderate attacks.
- name: CGRP Antagonists (Gepants)
description: Acute treatment option (ubrogepant, rimegepant).
evidence:
- reference: PMID:37755358
reference_title: "Migraine: Advances in the Pathogenesis and Treatment."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "CGRP not only contributes to symptoms but also represents a promising
therapeutic target, with inhibitors showing effectiveness in migraine management."
explanation: CGRP antagonists (gepants) are a class of CGRP inhibitors that
have demonstrated effectiveness in migraine management.
- name: Beta Blockers
description: Preventive therapy (propranolol, metoprolol).
evidence:
- reference: PMID:30893319
reference_title: "Beta-blockers for the prevention of headache in adults, a systematic review and meta-analysis."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Compared to placebo, propranolol reduced episodic migraine headaches
by 1.5 headaches/month at 8 weeks (95% CI: -2.3 to -0.65) and was more likely
to reduce headaches by 50% (RR: 1.4, 95% CI: 1.1-1.7)."
explanation: Meta-analysis of 108 RCTs confirms propranolol efficacy for
migraine prevention with high-quality evidence.
- reference: PMID:30893319
reference_title: "Beta-blockers for the prevention of headache in adults, a systematic review and meta-analysis."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "There is high quality evidence that propranolol is better than placebo
for episodic migraine headache."
explanation: Systematic review establishes beta-blockers as effective
first-line preventive therapy.
- name: Topiramate
description: Preventive therapy.
evidence:
- reference: PMID:24494792
reference_title: "Efficacy and mechanism of anticonvulsant drugs in migraine."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Efficacy has been demonstrated in randomized placebo-controlled trials
for topiramate and valproic acid including divalproex sodium."
explanation: Clinical trials have established the efficacy of topiramate for
migraine prevention.
- reference: PMID:24494792
reference_title: "Efficacy and mechanism of anticonvulsant drugs in migraine."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Effective anticonvulsants, such as topiramate and valproate, target
nociceptive trigeminovascular and trigeminothalamic dural pathways or mechanisms
involved in cortical spreading depression."
explanation: Explains the mechanism by which topiramate prevents migraine
through effects on trigeminovascular pathways and cortical spreading
depression.
- name: Valproate
description: Preventive therapy.
evidence:
- reference: PMID:24494792
reference_title: "Efficacy and mechanism of anticonvulsant drugs in migraine."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Efficacy has been demonstrated in randomized placebo-controlled trials
for topiramate and valproic acid including divalproex sodium."
explanation: Clinical trials have established the efficacy of
valproate/valproic acid for migraine prevention.
- reference: PMID:24494792
reference_title: "Efficacy and mechanism of anticonvulsant drugs in migraine."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Effective anticonvulsants, such as topiramate and valproate, target
nociceptive trigeminovascular and trigeminothalamic dural pathways or mechanisms
involved in cortical spreading depression."
explanation: Explains the mechanism by which valproate prevents migraine
through effects on trigeminovascular pathways and cortical spreading
depression.
- name: CGRP Monoclonal Antibodies
description: Preventive therapy (erenumab, fremanezumab, galcanezumab).
evidence:
- reference: PMID:39080518
reference_title: "Unraveling the interplay of neuroinflammatory signaling between parenchymal and meningeal cells in migraine headache."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "The efficacy of relatively blood-brain barrier-impermeable anti-calcitonin
gene-related peptide antibodies and triptans in treating migraine attacks, both
with and without aura, supports the concept of migraine pain originating in
meninges."
explanation: Anti-CGRP monoclonal antibodies have demonstrated clinical
efficacy in treating migraine, supporting their use as preventive therapy.
- reference: PMID:37755358
reference_title: "Migraine: Advances in the Pathogenesis and Treatment."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "CGRP not only contributes to symptoms but also represents a promising
therapeutic target, with inhibitors showing effectiveness in migraine management."
explanation: CGRP monoclonal antibodies are CGRP inhibitors that target this
key migraine pathway.
- name: Botulinum Toxin
description: For chronic migraine prevention.
evidence:
- reference: PMID:38910144
reference_title: "Effectiveness and safety of pharmacological prophylaxis for chronic migraine: a systematic review and network meta-analysis."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Among all the drugs for the preventive drugs for CM, Botulinum toxin
A has the best efficacy and safety profile, closely followed by calcitonin gene-related
peptide (CGRP) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs)."
explanation: Network meta-analysis of 24 RCTs demonstrates botulinum toxin A
has the best efficacy and safety profile among chronic migraine preventive
treatments.
- name: Neuromodulation
description: Non-invasive devices for prevention and acute treatment.
evidence:
- reference: PMID:37755358
reference_title: "Migraine: Advances in the Pathogenesis and Treatment."
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "Finally, the paper delves into neuromodulation as an innovative treatment
modality. Clinical studies indicating its effectiveness in migraine management
are reviewed"
explanation: Clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of
neuromodulation devices in migraine management.
clinical_trials:
- name: NCT07040813
phase: PHASE_III
status: RECRUITING
description: A randomized placebo-controlled double-blind trial investigating
the efficacy of onabotulinumtoxin A (Botox) added to CGRP monoclonal
antibody therapy for chronic migraine prevention over 12 weeks. The study
evaluates dual therapy versus CGRP monoclonal antibody monotherapy in
reducing monthly migraine days.
target_phenotypes:
- preferred_term: Headache
term:
id: HP:0002315
label: Headache
- preferred_term: Nausea
term:
id: HP:0002018
label: Nausea
evidence:
- reference: clinicaltrials:NCT07040813
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "The study will evaluate the efficacy of onabotulinumtoxin A when added
to CGRP monoclonal antibody therapy in chronic migraine prevention. Adverse
events and change in disease activity will be monitored."
explanation: This Phase III trial directly evaluates a combination approach
targeting two major migraine pathways (CGRP and acetylcholine) for chronic
migraine prevention.
- name: NCT06241313
phase: PHASE_III
status: RECRUITING
description: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multiple-attack
study evaluating atogepant (CGRP antagonist/gepant) for acute treatment of
migraine. The ECLIPSE trial assesses efficacy, safety, tolerability, and
consistency of effect with an open-label extension phase.
target_phenotypes:
- preferred_term: Headache
term:
id: HP:0002315
label: Headache
- preferred_term: Photophobia
term:
id: HP:0000613
label: Photophobia
- preferred_term: Phonophobia
term:
id: HP:0002183
label: Phonophobia
evidence:
- reference: clinicaltrials:NCT06241313
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "The main goal of the study is to see if atogepant is effective, safe,
and well-tolerated in treating migraine attacks quickly."
explanation: This Phase III trial evaluates atogepant, a CGRP antagonist,
for acute migraine treatment, providing clinical evidence for
transitioning this preventive agent to acute attack management.
- name: NCT07061847
phase: PHASE_II
status: RECRUITING
description: Study evaluating bilateral middle meningeal artery (MMA)
lidocaine infusion as a novel interventional approach for chronic
debilitating migraines. Investigates localized anesthesia targeting the
pain-sensitive meningeal tissues implicated in migraine pathophysiology.
target_phenotypes:
- preferred_term: Headache
term:
id: HP:0002315
label: Headache
evidence:
- reference: clinicaltrials:NCT07061847
supports: SUPPORT
snippet: "The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a
new treatment in improving chronic migraine symptoms. This treatment involves
a targeted lidocaine infusion into blood vessels in the skull to numb pain receptors,
potentially leading to improvements in chronic migraine intensity, frequency,
and duration."
explanation: This Phase II trial investigates a novel interventional
procedure targeting meningeal pain pathways in chronic migraine, providing
clinical evidence for direct vascular intervention approaches.
classifications:
harrisons_chapter:
- classification_value: NEUROLOGIC
datasets:
references:
- reference: DOI:10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14786
title: 'Primary headache disorders: From pathophysiology to neurostimulation therapies'
findings: []
- reference: DOI:10.1186/s10194-023-01628-8
title: Optogenetic cortical spreading depolarization induces headache-related
behaviour and neuroinflammatory responses some prolonged in familial
hemiplegic migraine type 1 mice
findings: []
- reference: DOI:10.1186/s10194-024-01741-2
title: The glymphatic system in migraine and other headaches
findings: []
- reference: DOI:10.1186/s10194-024-01827-x
title: Unraveling the interplay of neuroinflammatory signaling between
parenchymal and meningeal cells in migraine headache
findings: []
- reference: DOI:10.1186/s10194-024-01830-2
title: VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors mediate tactile hindpaw hypersensitivity and
carotid artery dilatation induced by PACAP38 in a migraine relevant mouse
model
findings: []
- reference: DOI:10.1523/jneurosci.0368-23.2023
title: Meningeal P2X7 Signaling Mediates Migraine-Related Intracranial
Mechanical Hypersensitivity
findings: []
- reference: DOI:10.3389/fneur.2024.1307319
title: 'A role of NLRP3 and MMP9 in migraine progression: a systematic review of
translational study'
findings: []
- reference: DOI:10.3390/ijms241512268
title: 'Migraine Treatment: Towards New Pharmacological Targets'
findings: []
- reference: DOI:10.3390/jcm13092701
title: The Dawn and Advancement of the Knowledge of the Genetics of Migraine
findings: []
- reference: DOI:10.3390/molecules29143385
title: The TRPA1 Ion Channel Mediates Oxidative Stress-Related Migraine
Pathogenesis
findings: []
- reference: DOI:10.3390/neurolint15030067
title: 'Migraine: Advances in the Pathogenesis and Treatment'
findings: []
Pathophysiology description Migraine is a paroxysmal brain disorder driven by the dynamic interplay of central network dysexcitability and peripheral trigeminovascular activation. Current models converge on: (1) cortical spreading depolarization (CSD) as the electrophysiologic substrate for aura, which initiates a parenchymal neuroinflammatory cascade; (2) propagation of danger signals from cortex to pain-sensitive meninges that activates/sensitizes trigeminal meningeal afferents; (3) neuropeptidergic amplification via calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) signaling; (4) hypothalamic/brainstem circuitry that modulates attack susceptibility and premonitory symptoms; and (5) glial and immune mechanisms in cortex, meninges, and trigeminal system that sustain peripheral and central sensitization. Glymphatic flow and meningeal lymphatics may interface with these processes, potentially influencing waste clearance and neuroimmune crosstalk in migraine. These mechanistic axes align with successful biology-driven therapeutics targeting the CGRP pathway and emerging PACAP- and purinergic-inflammation targets (dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2, wang2023primaryheadachedisorders pages 9-9, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32, vittorini2024theglymphaticsystem pages 1-2, zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50).
Core Pathophysiology - Trigeminovascular activation and neuropeptidergic signaling: CGRP is a central mediator released from trigeminal afferents, signaling through CLR:RAMP1 to increase cAMP/PKA and downstream effectors (KATP, ERK, CREB), with additional signaling via AMY1 (CTR:RAMP1) in some contexts; plasma CGRP elevations and CGRP-provoked migraine provide human support, and three therapeutic classes (ligand mAbs, receptor mAb, gepants) validate targetability (URL/DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15030067; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241512268) (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50, silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 1-4, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32). - CSD-driven neuroinflammation: In freely behaving mice, minimally invasive optogenetic CSD induces headache-related behaviors and cortical HMGB1 release; Panx1 channel blockade (TAT-Panx308) suppresses both behavior and HMGB1 release, linking CSD to pannexin-1–mediated alarmin signaling (URL/DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-023-01628-8) (dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2). Quote: “Blocking Panx1 channels by TAT-Panx_308 inhibited CSD-induced headache related behaviour and HMGB1 release.” (dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2) - Meningeal purinergic signaling and mechanosensitization: Following CSD, ATP–pannexin–P2X7 signaling in meninges drives prolonged mechanical sensitization of meningeal afferents; broad P2X and selective P2X7 blockade, as well as Panx1 inhibition, suppress sensitization without affecting afferent activation, localizing a key driver of migraine pain exacerbation to meningeal immune/neurovascular interfaces (URL/DOI: https://doi.org/10.1523/jneurosci.0368-23.2023) (zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2). Quote: “Broad-spectrum P2X receptor inhibition, selective blockade of the P2X7 receptor, and its related Pannexin 1 channel suppressed CSD-evoked afferent mechanical sensitization but did not affect the accompanying afferent activation response.” (zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2) - Neuroinflammatory interplay and glia: Reviews synthesize that neuronal stressors (CSD, metabolic mismatch) elicit astrocyte/microglia responses that can be transmitted to meninges, generating neurogenic inflammation and sustained headache; transitions from pro- to anti-inflammatory transcription within 24 h might temper signaling (URL/DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-024-01827-x) (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50). Quote: “Parenchymal neuroinflammatory signaling involving neurons, astrocytes, and microglia…extends to the meninges…triggering lasting headaches characteristic of migraine.” (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50) - Glymphatic and meningeal lymphatic systems: The glymphatic pathway, governed by astrocytic AQP4 at perivascular endfeet, may intersect with migraine via its links to neuroinflammation, CGRP biology, and CSD; circadian/vascular modulators of glymphatic flow could contribute to attack periodicity and resolution (URL/DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-024-01741-2) (vittorini2024theglymphaticsystem pages 1-2). - Hypothalamic/brainstem circuitry: Functional imaging literature collated in recent reviews implicates hypothalamus and brainstem regions in attack initiation and modulation, cohering with premonitory symptoms and peripheral-central coupling in trigeminovascular pathways (URL/DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14786; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15030067) (wang2023primaryheadachedisorders pages 9-9, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32).
Key Molecular Players - Genes/Proteins (HGNC): - CALCA/CALCB (CGRP; receptors CALCRL/RAMP1; AMY1 CTR/RAMP1): central neuropeptide axis in migraine; genetic associations at CALCA/CALCB noted (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50). - PANX1 (pannexin-1), P2RX7 (P2X7), HMGB1, NLRP3: CSD→Panx1→ATP→P2X7 signaling propagates neuroinflammation/mechanosensitization; HMGB1 release demonstrated; NLRP3 implicated in nitroglycerin models (URL/DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-023-01628-8; https://doi.org/10.1523/jneurosci.0368-23.2023; https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2024.1307319) (dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2, zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2, rushendran2024aroleof pages 15-16). - ADCYAP1 (PACAP), receptors ADCYAP1R1 (PAC1), VIPR1 (VPAC1), VIPR2 (VPAC2): PACAP provokes migraine; 2024 mouse knockout data emphasize VPAC1/VPAC2 over PAC1 for PACAP38-induced hypersensitivity and carotid vasodilation (URL/DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-024-01830-2) (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50). - AQP4 (astrocyte endfeet water channel): glymphatic function and neuroimmune coupling (URL/DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-024-01741-2) (vittorini2024theglymphaticsystem pages 1-2). - TRPA1 (oxidative/nitrosative stress sensor): candidate conduit from triggers to CGRP release and trigeminovascular activation (URL/DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29143385; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241512268) (silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 29-30, silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 1-4). - Monogenic/channel genes: CACNA1A, ATP1A2, SCN1A, PRRT2, KCNK18 (TRESK) carry causal mutations in familial subtypes or are implicated; genetics reviews and models connect these to CSD susceptibility and excitability (URL/DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422(24)00026-7; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13092701) (dias2024migraineagenomic pages 39-41). - Chemical entities (CHEBI): - CGRP (CHEBI:80204); PACAP (CHEBI:80409); ATP (CHEBI:15422); nitric oxide donors (e.g., nitroglycerin, CHEBI:29022) in models; glutamate (CHEBI:29988) alterations noted; KATP modulators in downstream signaling discussed in reviews (silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 1-4, silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 29-30, zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50). - Cell Types (CL): - Trigeminal nociceptors (CL:0000099), meningeal macrophages/neutrophils (CL:0000235/CL:0000775) implicated in P2X7-dependent sensitization; astrocytes (CL:0000127), microglia (CL:0000129), satellite glia (CL:0000110) in TCC and ganglia contribute to chronicity and central sensitization (zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32). - Anatomical Locations (UBERON): - Meninges (UBERON:0000035), dura mater (UBERON:0000033), trigeminal ganglion (UBERON:0001719), trigeminal nucleus caudalis in brainstem (UBERON:0002305), cortex (UBERON:0000956), hypothalamus (UBERON:0001898), brainstem (UBERON:0002298), meningeal lymphatics (dural lymphatic vessels) and perivascular spaces of glymphatic system (vittorini2024theglymphaticsystem pages 1-2, zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2, wang2023primaryheadachedisorders pages 9-9, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32).
Biological Processes (GO terms) - Neuropeptide signaling pathway (GO:0007218) – CGRP, PACAP (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50, silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 1-4). - G protein-coupled receptor signaling via adenylate cyclase (GO:0007189) – CLR/RAMP1, VPAC receptors (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50). - Cortical spreading depolarization/spreading depression-related processes: regulation of membrane potential (GO:0042391) and glutamate signaling (GO:0007215) – CSD initiation and propagation (dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2, wang2023primaryheadachedisorders pages 9-9). - Purinergic receptor signaling (GO:0035589) – P2X7-mediated sensitization (zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2). - Inflammasome complex assembly (GO:0061702) – NLRP3 in preclinical migraine models; release of alarmins (HMGB1) (dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2, rushendran2024aroleof pages 15-16). - Neuroinflammatory response (GO:0150076) and neurogenic inflammation – astrocyte/microglia-meningeal crosstalk (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50). - Glymphatic process/CSF–ISF exchange (covered conceptually; related to GO:0005576 extracellular region; AQP4-mediated water transport GO:0015250) (vittorini2024theglymphaticsystem pages 1-2).
Cellular Components (GO terms) - Extracellular region/space (GO:0005576) – CGRP/PACAP/ATP signaling; alarmins (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50, zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2, dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2). - Plasma membrane (GO:0005886) – CLR/RAMP1, VPAC receptors, TRPA1, P2X7, Panx1 channels (zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2, silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 29-30, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50). - Perivascular astrocyte endfeet (part of astrocyte, associated with AQP4) – glymphatic interfaces (vittorini2024theglymphaticsystem pages 1-2). - Meningeal vasculature and dural border cell layer – site of immune–neuronal interactions (zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50).
Disease Progression (sequence) - Trigger exposure in predisposed brain (genetic channelopathies, network dysexcitability) → CSD in migraine with aura → neuronal Panx1 opening, ATP release, HMGB1 release → astrocyte/microglia activation and transcriptional inflammatory programs → transmission of inflammatory mediators to CSF/meninges → neurogenic inflammation in meninges with activation and particularly mechanosensitization of trigeminal afferents via P2X7–Panx1 signaling → CGRP/PACAP release and vasoneuronal amplification → central sensitization in TCC/brainstem with hypothalamic modulation and clinical headache/premonitory symptoms; glymphatic/meningeal lymphatic dynamics may modulate attack course and resolution (dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2, zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50, vittorini2024theglymphaticsystem pages 1-2, wang2023primaryheadachedisorders pages 9-9).
Phenotypic Manifestations (HP terms) - Headache (HP:0002315), Photophobia (HP:0000613), Phonophobia (HP:0002183), Nausea/Vomiting (HP:0002018/HP:0002013), Aura (HP:0002071), Allodynia (HP:0030169) – linked mechanistically to meningeal afferent sensitization (P2X7) and CGRP-driven trigeminovascular signaling; prolonged behaviors after CSD in FHM1 models reflect neuroinflammatory persistence (zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2, dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32).
Recent developments and latest research (2023–2024 priority) - Experimental linkage of CSD to neuroinflammation and behavior: In vivo optogenetic CSD induces headache-relevant behavior and HMGB1 release; Panx1 inhibition reduces both, supporting a CSD→Panx1→alarmin axis (J Headache Pain, 2023; DOI above) (dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2). - Meningeal purinergic signaling after CSD: P2X7 and Panx1 are necessary for mechanical sensitization of meningeal afferents, separating activation from sensitization and nominating P2X7/Panx1 as therapeutic targets (J Neurosci, 2023; DOI above) (zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2). - Neuroinflammatory crosstalk modeling migraine pain: Updated 2024 synthesis proposes neuronal stress signaling (CSD/metabolic mismatch) transmitted to meninges via astrocyte interfaces and CSF, producing headache with or without aura (J Headache Pain, 2024; DOI above) (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50). - Glymphatic system in migraine: 2024 review highlights AQP4-rich astrocyte endfeet and glymphatic regulation as plausible contributors to migraine pathogenesis through interactions with CGRP, neuroinflammation, and CSD (J Headache Pain, 2024; DOI above) (vittorini2024theglymphaticsystem pages 1-2). - PACAP receptor specificity in vivo: 2024 mouse knockout work indicates PACAP38-induced tactile hypersensitivity and carotid artery vasodilation require VPAC1/VPAC2 but not PAC1, suggesting prioritization of VPAC targeting for migraine relevance (J Headache Pain, 2024; DOI above). Quote: “PACAP38…hypersensitivity…was diminished in VPAC1 and VPAC2 KO mice…PAC1 KO mice showed similar responses to WT controls.” (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50) - Genetics: 2024 Lancet Neurology review underscores causal mutations (CACNA1A, ATP1A2, SCN1A) in familial hemiplegic migraine and additional loci including KCNK18 (TRESK) and PRRT2, alongside GWAS signals implicating neuropeptide and synaptic pathways (URL/DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422(24)00026-7) (dias2024migraineagenomic pages 39-41).
Current applications and real-world implementations - CGRP-targeting therapies: Reviews summarizing clinical use confirm the translational validity of CGRP antagonism (gepants) and anti-CGRP monoclonal antibodies, with meaningful reductions in migraine frequency and a favorable cardiovascular safety profile compared with vasoconstrictive agents; persistent nonresponse in a substantial fraction indicates biological heterogeneity and additional targets beyond CGRP (URL/DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15030067; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241512268) (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32, silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 1-4). Quote: “Despite the revolution brought by CGRP monoclonal antibodies and gepants, a significant percentage of patients still remains burdened by an unsatisfactory response, suggesting that other pathways may play a critical role.” (silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 1-4) - Mechanistic biomarkers and targets: TRPA1 is positioned as a trigger-responsive conduit to CGRP release and a druggable link between oxidative stress/NO and migraine induction (URL/DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29143385) (silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 29-30).
Expert opinions and analysis from authoritative sources - Central–peripheral integration: Recent reviews emphasize both CNS dysexcitability (hypothalamus/brainstem/cortical) and peripheral trigeminovascular contributions; an unresolved debate persists regarding where attacks are initiated, but both are necessary for full clinical expression (URL/DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14786; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15030067) (wang2023primaryheadachedisorders pages 9-9, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32). - Neuroinflammatory framework: 2024 synthesis articulates a cohesive parenchyma-to-meninges inflammatory cascade as a unifying thread for migraine with or without aura, nominating Panx1–P2X7 and glial targets (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50). - Glymphatic/lymphatic perspective: The 2024 glymphatic review frames AQP4-dependent exchange and meningeal lymphatic functions as an emerging layer interacting with CGRP, CSD, and neuroinflammation, meriting mechanistic and translational investigation (vittorini2024theglymphaticsystem pages 1-2).
Relevant statistics and data from recent studies - CSD→behavior and HMGB1 in vivo: In WT mice, headache-like grimace scores normalized by 24 h, whereas FHM1 mice normalized only by 48 h; nest-building deficits persisted to 72 h; Panx1 inhibitor reduced CSD-induced behavior and HMGB1 release (J Headache Pain, 2023; DOI above) (dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2). - P2X7/Panx1 dependence: Selective P2X7 and Panx1 inhibition suppressed CSD-evoked mechanical sensitization of meningeal afferents; P2X2/3 blockade had no effect; effects localized to meninges and did not alter CSD susceptibility (J Neurosci, 2023; DOI above) (zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2). - PACAP receptor knockout: VPAC1/VPAC2 deletion attenuated PACAP38-induced hypersensitivity/vasodilation; PAC1 deletion did not, suggesting receptor selectivity for migraine-relevant effects in this model (J Headache Pain, 2024; DOI above) (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50).
Evidence items with PMIDs/DOIs, dates, URLs (selection) - Dehghani et al., 2023-07, J Headache Pain: Optogenetic CSD drives headache behavior and HMGB1; Panx1 blockade protective. DOI/URL: 10.1186/s10194-023-01628-8; https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-023-01628-8 (dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2). - Zhao et al., 2023-07, J Neurosci: Meningeal P2X7–Panx1 mediates CSD-evoked mechanical sensitization. DOI/URL: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.0368-23.2023; https://doi.org/10.1523/jneurosci.0368-23.2023 (zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2). - Dalkara et al., 2024-07, J Headache Pain: Parenchymal–meningeal neuroinflammatory signaling model for migraine headache. DOI/URL: 10.1186/s10194-024-01827-x; https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-024-01827-x (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50). - Vittorini et al., 2024-03, J Headache Pain: Glymphatic system in migraine; AQP4 astrocyte endfeet. DOI/URL: 10.1186/s10194-024-01741-2; https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-024-01741-2 (vittorini2024theglymphaticsystem pages 1-2). - Guo et al., 2024-07, J Headache Pain: VPAC1/2—but not PAC1—mediate PACAP38-induced hypersensitivity/vasodilation in mice. DOI/URL: 10.1186/s10194-024-01830-2; https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-024-01830-2 (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50). - Silvestro et al., 2023-07, IJMS: Overview of emerging migraine targets beyond CGRP, including TRP, PACAP/VIP, purinergic pathways. DOI/URL: 10.3390/ijms241512268; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241512268 (silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 1-4, silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 29-30). - Wang et al., 2023-04, Heliyon: Review of primary headache pathophysiology and neuromodulation; emphasizes trigeminovascular, CSD, hypothalamic/brainstem roles. DOI/URL: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14786; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14786 (wang2023primaryheadachedisorders pages 9-9). - Pleș et al., 2023-08, Neurology International: Comprehensive review—CGRP pathway and limitations; CGRP-independent provocations. DOI/URL: 10.3390/neurolint15030067; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15030067 (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 14-15). - Rushendran et al., 2024-05, Front Neurol: Systematic review of NLRP3/MMP9 in nitroglycerin models; translational pointers to inflammasome targeting. DOI/URL: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1307319; https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2024.1307319 (rushendran2024aroleof pages 15-16). - Sutherland et al., 2024-04, Lancet Neurol: Genetics of migraine; familial genes and GWAS landscape. DOI/URL: 10.1016/S1474-4422(24)00026-7; https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422(24)00026-7 (dias2024migraineagenomic pages 39-41).
Ontology-ready annotations (examples) - Genes/Proteins (HGNC): CALCA, CALCB, CALCRL, RAMP1; ADCYAP1, ADCYAP1R1, VIPR1, VIPR2; PANX1; P2RX7; NLRP3; HMGB1; AQP4; TRPA1; CACNA1A; ATP1A2; SCN1A; PRRT2; KCNK18 (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50, dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2, wang2023primaryheadachedisorders pages 9-9, silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 29-30, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32, zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2, rushendran2024aroleof pages 15-16, dias2024migraineagenomic pages 39-41). - GO Biological Process: neuropeptide signaling (GO:0007218); cAMP-mediated signaling (GO:0019933); purinergic receptor signaling (GO:0035589); inflammasome assembly (GO:0061702); regulation of membrane potential (GO:0042391); glial cell activation (GO:0061900); water transport (GO:0006833) (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50, zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2, dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2, vittorini2024theglymphaticsystem pages 1-2). - GO Cellular Component: extracellular region (GO:0005576); plasma membrane (GO:0005886); perivascular astrocyte endfoot region; pannexin hemichannel complex (GO:0071244) (dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2, zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2, vittorini2024theglymphaticsystem pages 1-2). - CL: trigeminal sensory neuron (CL:0000099); astrocyte (CL:0000127); microglia (CL:0000129); satellite glial cell (CL:0000110); macrophage (CL:0000235) (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32, zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2). - UBERON: meninges (UBERON:0000035); dura mater (UBERON:0000033); trigeminal ganglion (UBERON:0001719); cerebral cortex (UBERON:0000956); hypothalamus (UBERON:0001898); brainstem (UBERON:0002298) (zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2, wang2023primaryheadachedisorders pages 9-9, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32). - CHEBI: CGRP (CHEBI:80204), PACAP (CHEBI:80409), ATP (CHEBI:15422), nitroglycerin (CHEBI:29022), glutamate (CHEBI:29988) (silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 29-30, zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32).
Direct supporting quotes (selected) - “Blocking Panx1 channels by TAT-Panx_308 inhibited CSD-induced headache related behaviour and HMGB1 release.” (Dehghani et al., 2023) (dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2) - “Broad-spectrum P2X receptor inhibition, selective blockade of the P2X7 receptor, and its related Pannexin 1 channel suppressed CSD-evoked afferent mechanical sensitization…” (Zhao et al., 2023) (zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2) - “Parenchymal neuroinflammatory signaling involving neurons, astrocytes, and microglia…extends to the meninges, thereby triggering lasting headaches characteristic of migraine…” (Dalkara et al., 2024) (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50) - “PACAP38 induced hypersensitivity…was diminished in VPAC1 and VPAC2 KO mice…PAC1 KO mice showed similar responses to WT controls.” (Guo et al., 2024) (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50) - “The glymphatic system…[with] astrocytes rich in aquaporin 4…impairment could lead to…migraine…” (Vittorini et al., 2024) (vittorini2024theglymphaticsystem pages 1-2)
Limitations of evidence and open questions - While CGRP therapies confirm the translational centrality of the trigeminovascular axis, heterogeneity of response underscores parallel pathways (PACAP/VPAC, purinergic/P2X7, TRPA1, glia-immune axes) that need targeted clinical validation (silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 1-4, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32). - Human mechanistic imaging links hypothalamus/brainstem to initiation, but establishing causal primacy vs modulatory roles requires prospective provocation/imaging paradigms (wang2023primaryheadachedisorders pages 9-9, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32). - PACAP-targeting in humans is promising but receptor selectivity and target confirmation (VPAC vs PAC1) require rigorous clinical testing aligned with the 2024 KO data (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50).
References (with URLs/DOIs) - Dalkara et al., 2024, The Journal of Headache and Pain. https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-024-01827-x (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50) - Dehghani et al., 2023, The Journal of Headache and Pain. https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-023-01628-8 (dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2) - Wang et al., 2023, Heliyon. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14786 (wang2023primaryheadachedisorders pages 9-9) - Silvestro et al., 2023, Int J Mol Sci. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241512268 (silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 1-4, silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 29-30) - Pleș et al., 2023, Neurology International. https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15030067 (ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 14-15) - Vittorini et al., 2024, The Journal of Headache and Pain. https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-024-01741-2 (vittorini2024theglymphaticsystem pages 1-2) - Zhao et al., 2023, J Neurosci. https://doi.org/10.1523/jneurosci.0368-23.2023 (zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2) - Rushendran et al., 2024, Front Neurol. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2024.1307319 (rushendran2024aroleof pages 15-16) - Sutherland et al., 2024, Lancet Neurol. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422(24)00026-7 (dias2024migraineagenomic pages 39-41)
Notes on clinical translation Because the strongest 2023–2024 quantitative clinical outcomes (e.g., head-to-head real-world anti-CGRP mAbs vs onabotulinumtoxinA, and PACAP ligand neutralization in phase 2) were not extractable from the available evidence set here, this report emphasizes mechanistic 2023–2024 advances tightly supported by the retrieved sources. Future updates should integrate trial-level data (monthly migraine day changes, responder rates) from contemporary guideline statements and primary trials as they become available in the evidence corpus (silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 1-4, ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32).
References
(dehghani2023optogeneticcorticalspreading pages 1-2): Anisa Dehghani, Maarten Schenke, Sandra H. van Heiningen, Hulya Karatas, Else A. Tolner, and Arn M. J. M. van den Maagdenberg. Optogenetic cortical spreading depolarization induces headache-related behaviour and neuroinflammatory responses some prolonged in familial hemiplegic migraine type 1 mice. The Journal of Headache and Pain, Jul 2023. URL: https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-023-01628-8, doi:10.1186/s10194-023-01628-8. This article has 16 citations.
(wang2023primaryheadachedisorders pages 9-9): Ziying Wang, Xiangyu Yang, Binglei Zhao, and Weidong Li. Primary headache disorders: from pathophysiology to neurostimulation therapies. Heliyon, 9:e14786, Apr 2023. URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14786, doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14786. This article has 25 citations and is from a peer-reviewed journal.
(ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 30-32): Horia Pleș, Ioan-Alexandru Florian, Teodora-Larisa Timis, Razvan-Adrian Covache-Busuioc, Luca-Andrei Glavan, David-Ioan Dumitrascu, Andrei Adrian Popa, Andrei Bordeianu, and Alexandru Vlad Ciurea. Migraine: advances in the pathogenesis and treatment. Neurology International, 15:1052-1105, Aug 2023. URL: https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15030067, doi:10.3390/neurolint15030067. This article has 53 citations and is from a poor quality or predatory journal.
(vittorini2024theglymphaticsystem pages 1-2): Maria Grazia Vittorini, Aysenur Sahin, Antonin Trojan, Sevil Yusifli, Tamta Alashvili, Gonçalo V. Bonifácio, Ketevan Paposhvili, Viktoria Tischler, Christian Lampl, and Simona Sacco. The glymphatic system in migraine and other headaches. The Journal of Headache and Pain, Mar 2024. URL: https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-024-01741-2, doi:10.1186/s10194-024-01741-2. This article has 35 citations.
(zhao2023meningealp2x7signaling pages 1-2): Jun Zhao, Samantha C Harrison, and D. Levy. Meningeal p2x7 signaling mediates migraine-related intracranial mechanical hypersensitivity. The Journal of Neuroscience, 43:5975-5985, Jul 2023. URL: https://doi.org/10.1523/jneurosci.0368-23.2023, doi:10.1523/jneurosci.0368-23.2023. This article has 8 citations.
(ples2023migraineadvancesin pages 48-50): Horia Pleș, Ioan-Alexandru Florian, Teodora-Larisa Timis, Razvan-Adrian Covache-Busuioc, Luca-Andrei Glavan, David-Ioan Dumitrascu, Andrei Adrian Popa, Andrei Bordeianu, and Alexandru Vlad Ciurea. Migraine: advances in the pathogenesis and treatment. Neurology International, 15:1052-1105, Aug 2023. URL: https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint15030067, doi:10.3390/neurolint15030067. This article has 53 citations and is from a poor quality or predatory journal.
(silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 1-4): Marcello Silvestro, Luigi Francesco Iannone, Ilaria Orologio, Alessandro Tessitore, Gioacchino Tedeschi, Pierangelo Geppetti, and Antonio Russo. Migraine treatment: towards new pharmacological targets. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24:12268, Jul 2023. URL: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241512268, doi:10.3390/ijms241512268. This article has 34 citations and is from a poor quality or predatory journal.
(rushendran2024aroleof pages 15-16): R. Rushendran, Anuragh Singh, S. A. Singh, Vellapandian Chitra, K. Ilango, Milena De Felice, Jinghui Zhang, and A. Kammala. A role of nlrp3 and mmp9 in migraine progression: a systematic review of translational study. Frontiers in Neurology, May 2024. URL: https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2024.1307319, doi:10.3389/fneur.2024.1307319. This article has 5 citations and is from a peer-reviewed journal.
(silvestro2023migrainetreatmenttowards pages 29-30): Marcello Silvestro, Luigi Francesco Iannone, Ilaria Orologio, Alessandro Tessitore, Gioacchino Tedeschi, Pierangelo Geppetti, and Antonio Russo. Migraine treatment: towards new pharmacological targets. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24:12268, Jul 2023. URL: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241512268, doi:10.3390/ijms241512268. This article has 34 citations and is from a poor quality or predatory journal.
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