Migraine is a health problem, even a disease, that negatively affects the lives of many people, manifesting itself with severe headaches and various symptoms. Scientists from the University of Rochester have taken an important step in the treatment of this disease by understanding the mechanism behind this disease. The discovery may allow the development of new and effective methods for treating the condition.
How was the mystery of migraine solved and what are the new treatment methods?
Researchers at the University of Rochester have discovered that migraine headaches cause movements in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) surrounding the brain. This movement leads to the release of certain proteins, which interact with nerves to cause pain. This new finding has led to the discovery of new proteins that could be targeted in the treatment of the disease.
Maiken Nedergaard, co-director of the Center for Translational Neuromedicine at the University of Rochester and leader of the study, said: “In this study, we describe the interaction between the central and peripheral nervous systems in which increased concentrations of proteins released in the brain during migraine-associated spreading depolarization are implicated,” “This discovery opens many new doors to strengthen existing treatments and identify new targets.”
Migraine attacks occur after cortical spreading depression, caused by the release of glutamate and potassium. This process spreads in a wave-like manner, affecting the brain’s oxygen levels and blood flow. During a migraine attack, the brain cannot feel pain, but a communication process begins between the brain and the peripheral sensory nerves.
The researchers showed that CSF carries these proteins to a large nerve bundle called the trigeminal ganglion, which collects sensory information from the head and face. This new finding takes an important step toward explaining the cause of post-attack pain.
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Nedergaard and his team identified 12 ligand proteins that are released during an attack and bind to nerve receptors. One of these proteins, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), is the target of new drugs currently used to prevent and treat migraine.
In conclusion, this new research has solved the mystery behind migraine and paved the way for new treatments. This development points to a promising future for many people who suffer from migraine. Scientists believe that these discoveries could revolutionize migraine treatment.
If you wish, you can read the original published article of the research here. What do you think? Please do not forget to share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.