Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 22, 2025
Investigating Migraine-Like Behavior Using Light Aversion in Mice
Published on: August 11, 2021
Investigating Migraine-Like Behavior Using Light Aversion in Mice
Mengya Wang1, Bianca N Mason2, Levi P Sowers3
1Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Iowa.
Abstract:
Migraine is a complex neurological disorder characterized by headache and sensory abnormalities, such as hypersensitivity to light, observed as photophobia. Whilst it is impossible to confirm that a mouse is experiencing migraine, light aversion can be used as a behavioral surrogate for the migraine symptom of photophobia. To test for light aversion, we utilize the light/dark assay to measure the time mice freely choose to spend in either a light or dark environment. The assay has been refined by introducing two critical modifications: pre-exposures to the chamber prior to running the test procedure and adjustable chamber lighting, permitting the use of a range of light intensities from 55 lux to 27,000 lux. Because the choice to spend more time in the dark is also indicative of anxiety, we also utilize a light-independent anxiety test, the open field assay, to distinguish anxiety from light-aversive behavior. Here, we describe a modified test paradigm for the light/dark and open field assays. The application of these assays is described for intraperitoneal injection of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in two mouse strains and for optogenetic brain stimulation studies.
Insights
Researchers refined the light/dark assay to accurately measure photophobia in mice, a key migraine symptom. This improved method helps distinguish light aversion from anxiety, advancing migraine research.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Migraine is a neurological disorder featuring headache and photophobia (light hypersensitivity).
- Light aversion in mice serves as a behavioral model for photophobia.
- Distinguishing light aversion from anxiety is crucial for accurate migraine research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a modified light/dark assay for assessing photophobia in mice.
- To introduce modifications that improve the accuracy of the light/dark assay.
- To differentiate light-aversive behavior from anxiety using the open field assay.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a modified light/dark assay with pre-exposures and adjustable light intensities (55–27,000 lux).
- Employed the open field assay to control for anxiety-related behaviors.
- Applied these assays to study the effects of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and optogenetic stimulation.
Main Results:
- The modified light/dark assay effectively measures light aversion in mice.
- The combination of assays allows for the distinction between photophobia and anxiety.
- The paradigm was successfully applied to investigate CGRP effects and brain stimulation.
Conclusions:
- Refined light/dark and open field assays provide a robust method for studying migraine-related photophobia in mice.
- These assays facilitate research into the mechanisms of migraine and potential therapeutic targets.
- The methodology is applicable to various migraine research models, including pharmacological and optogenetic studies.
