Migraine Headaches
Migraine headache is a common neurological disorder that affects 11% of adults worldwide. This disease most likely has a neurovascular origin. Clinically, migraine headache is divided into two main subtypes, namely migraine with aura (MA) and without aura (MO). Diagnosis of migraine headaches is based on questionnaires, interviewing and neuroimaging. The exact pathomechanism of migraine remains unclear, but it is believed that activation of the trigeminovascular system (TGVS) and cortical spreading depression (CSD) play an important role in this pathophysiological condition.
Genetic studies have revealed that ion transporter genes and the neurotransmitter pathway play an important role in migraine pathogenesis. Molecular genetic studies of migraine have investigated many polymorphisms possibly associated with MA/MO. In this disease, the most often examined targets are involved in the regulation of homocysteine (Hcy), serotonin (SLC6A4, 5-HT), hypocretin-1, glutamate (GRIA1), methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), potassium channel subfamily K member 18 (KCNK18, TRESK), hypocretin receptor 1 (HCRTR1), Syntaxin 1A (STX1A). Besides, markers associated with inflammation, oxidative stress, pain transmission and emotions have been identified, such as IL-1 (interleukin-1) and IL-6, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), pituitary adenylate cyclaseactivating peptide (PACAP).
Fig.1 Cerebral metabolomics that might be involved in migraine pathogenesis and therapeutic targets. (Gross, 2019)
What Can Creative Biolabs do for you?
The summarized markers are classified into two groups. They may help in monitoring drug response, disease prognosis, and/or progression. Some of these mentioned molecular factors are currently under investigation as new targets for migraine pharmacotherapy. Creative Biolabs now provides a series of research tools needed for migraine headache research. Our product portfolio includes monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), polyclonal antibodies(pAbs), labeled antibodies, proteins, analytical kits, and small molecule activators and inhibitors. For more information, feel free to contact us.
| Associated with immune and oxidative stress response | MTHFR, GRIA1, GRIA3, IL-1, IL-6 |
| Associated with pain transmission and emotional states | KCNK18, HCRTR1, SLC6A4, STX1A, CGRP, PACAP, glutamate, 5-HT, and hypocretin-1, substance P |
Reference
- Gross, E. C.; et al. The metabolic face of migraine-from pathophysiology to treatment. Nature Reviews Neurology. 2019, 15(11): 627-643.
