Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 28, 2026
10:39
3D-Neuronavigation In Vivo Through a Patient's Brain During a Spontaneous Migraine Headache
Published on: June 2, 2014
New directions in migraine
1Medical Research Council Functional Genomics Unit, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, UK.
BMC Medicine
|October 27, 2011
Summary
Recent genetic discoveries reveal ion channel and transporter mutations linked to migraine, supporting a neurogenic basis for this neurological disorder. This advances understanding and targets for future migraine therapies.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Genetics
- Neurobiology
Background:
- Migraine is a common neurological disorder with significant global health impact.
- Its underlying molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood, though a hyperresponsive nervous system is implicated.
- Understanding has evolved from cerebrovascular to neuroinflammatory and now neurogenic perspectives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent genetic findings in migraine.
- To discuss the implications of these discoveries for migraine neurobiology.
- To explore future therapeutic targets based on genetic insights.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent genetic discoveries in typical migraine forms.
- Analysis of identified genetic loci, including ion channels and transporters.
- Synthesis of genetic findings with existing knowledge of migraine pathophysiology.
Main Results:
- Genetic loci associated with migraine have been identified.
- Mutations in ion channels and transporters are implicated as causative factors.
- These findings strongly support a neurogenic basis for migraine.
Conclusions:
- Genetic discoveries represent a significant advancement in understanding migraine.
- Ion channel modulation presents a promising therapeutic strategy for the 'hyperresponsive' brain in migraine.
- Translational research in migraine is entering an exciting and rapidly advancing phase.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Open Angle Glaucoma: Treatment
In open-angle glaucoma, the iridocorneal angle remains open, but the trabecular meshwork becomes stiff, slowing down the outflow of aqueous humor. This causes a buildup of aqueous humor in the anterior chamber, leading to a sudden increase in intraocular pressure. The treatment for open-angle glaucoma focuses on reducing the elevated intraocular pressure by either decreasing the secretion of aqueous humor or increasing its outflow.
Drugs such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, α2- and...
Drugs such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, α2- and...
01:29Increased Intracranial Pressure ll: Pathophysiology
Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) refers to a potentially life-threatening rise in pressure inside the skull. This usually happens when there is a major change in the volume of brain tissue, blood, or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) — the three components inside the skull. According to the Monro-Kellie doctrine, if the volume of one component increases, the volumes of the other components must decrease to maintain normal pressure. If this does not happen, ICP rises.The process often begins with...