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Molecular Mechanisms and Treatment of Migraine

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 October 2025 | Viewed by 3013

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Department of Neurology and Headache Center, Japanese Red Cross Shizuoka Hospital, Shizuoka 420-0853, Japan
Interests: migraine

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This special issue explores the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying migraine, a debilitating neurological disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of severe headache, often accompanied by sensory disturbances. Recent scientific advances have elucidated the pathophysiological pathways involved in migraine, including the central role of neurotransmitters, ion channels, and inflammatory processes. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), have already entered clinical practice and are showing positive results in migraine patients by providing targeted efficacy without significant side effects. Understanding these mechanisms is critical to the development of targeted therapies that can alleviate the suffering of millions of people worldwide.

In this issue, we aim to bring together original research articles and comprehensive reviews that explore the genetic, biochemical, and environmental factors that contribute to migraine. In addition, we highlight novel therapeutic strategies, ranging from pharmacological interventions, such as pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS), to neuromodulation techniques. These approaches aim to prevent or reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. By synthesizing the latest findings from molecular biology, clinical trials, and therapeutic innovation, this issue aims to advance our understanding and treatment of migraine.

Dr. Noboru Imai
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • migraine
  • nitric oxide synthase (NOS)
  • neuropeptides
  • calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)
  • pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP)
  • molecular pathways
  • therapeutic targets
  • neurovascular condition

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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Review

14 pages, 1420 KiB  
Review
Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology of Spreading Depolarization/Depression and Migraine: A Narrative Review
by Eiji Kitamura and Noboru Imai
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(20), 11163; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252011163 - 17 Oct 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2353
Abstract
Migraine is a prevalent neurological disorder, particularly among individuals aged 20–50 years, with significant social and economic impacts. Despite its high prevalence, the pathogenesis of migraine remains unclear. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of cortical spreading depolarization/depression (CSD) and its [...] Read more.
Migraine is a prevalent neurological disorder, particularly among individuals aged 20–50 years, with significant social and economic impacts. Despite its high prevalence, the pathogenesis of migraine remains unclear. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of cortical spreading depolarization/depression (CSD) and its close association with migraine aura, focusing on its role in understanding migraine pathogenesis and therapeutic interventions. We discuss historical studies that have demonstrated the role of CSD in the visual phenomenon of migraine aura, along with modern imaging techniques confirming its propagation across the occipital cortex. Animal studies are examined to indicate that CSD is not exclusive to migraines; it also occurs in other neurological conditions. At the cellular level, we review how CSD is characterized by ionic changes and excitotoxicity, leading to neuronal and glial responses. We explore how CSD activates the trigeminal nervous system and upregulates the expression of calcitonin gene-related peptides (CGRP), thereby contributing to migraine pain. Factors such as genetics, obesity, and environmental conditions that influence the CSD threshold are discussed, suggesting potential therapeutic targets. Current treatments for migraine, including prophylactic agents and CGRP-targeting drugs, are evaluated in the context of their expected effects on suppressing CSD activity. Additionally, we highlight emerging therapies such as intranasal insulin-like growth factor 1 and vagus nerve stimulation, which have shown promise in reducing CSD susceptibility and frequency. By elucidating the molecular and cellular mechanisms of CSD, this review aims to enhance the understanding of migraine pathogenesis and support the development of targeted therapeutic strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms and Treatment of Migraine)
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