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Platelet nitric oxide metabolites in migraine
T Shimomura1, F Murakami, K Kotani
1Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Tottori University, Faculty of Medicine, Yonago, Japan. toshimo@grape.med.tottori-u.ac.jp
Cephalalgia : an International Journal of Headache
|June 22, 1999
Summary
Migraine patients show elevated nitric oxide (NO) markers in platelets during attacks. These levels decrease after treatment, suggesting NO
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Nitric oxide (NO) is implicated as a potential factor in migraine pathophysiology.
- Platelets are increasingly recognized for their role in vascular and neurological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate concentrations of nitrite, total nitrate/nitrite, and cyclic guanosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cGMP) in platelets of migraine patients.
- To explore the relationship between these markers and migraine attacks, as well as the effect of propranolol treatment.
Main Methods:
- Fluorometric assay techniques were used to quantify nitrite and total nitrate/nitrite in platelets.
- Platelet samples were collected from patients with migraine without aura (MwoA), migraine with aura (MwA), and healthy controls during migraine attacks and headache-free periods.
Main Results:
- Significantly higher concentrations of platelet nitrite and total nitrate/nitrite were observed in both MwoA and MwA patients compared to healthy controls.
- Elevated platelet cGMP levels were also found in migraine patients.
- Platelet total nitrate/nitrite levels decreased significantly during headache-free periods following propranolol treatment.
Conclusions:
- Platelets produce nitric oxide (NO) during migraine attacks.
- Elevated NO metabolites in platelets may be associated with migraine pain and altered cerebral blood flow.
- These findings suggest novel therapeutic strategies targeting NO pathways for migraine treatment.