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Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Detection and Quantification of Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) in Human Plasma Using a Modified Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Published on: June 16, 2023
Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP): Biology, Signaling, Pathophysiological Roles, and Therapeutic Applications
María Jesús Ramírez-Expósito1, Cristina Cueto-Ureña1, José Manuel Martínez-Martos1
1Experimental and Clinical Physiopathology Research Group CTS-1039, Department of Health Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Jaén, E23071 Jaén, Spain.
Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a key signaling molecule in the nervous system, crucial for migraine and other conditions. This review details CGRP
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a neuropeptide with widespread roles in the nervous system.
- It is implicated in various physiological processes and diseases, notably migraine.
- Recent structural and mechanistic insights have advanced understanding of the CGRP system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of the CGRP system.
- To integrate recent advances in CGRP structure, function, and therapeutic applications.
- To discuss the role of CGRP in migraine and other diseases, and future therapeutic directions.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of current literature.
- Synthesis of data on molecular structure, gene organization, and post-translational processing.
- Analysis of cryo-electron microscopy data for the CGRP receptor complex.
- Review of clinical data for anti-CGRP therapies and small-molecule antagonists.
- Discussion of preclinical and emerging roles in various diseases.
Main Results:
- CGRP plays diverse physiological roles, including vasodilation, nociception, and neurogenic inflammation.
- The CGRP system is central to migraine pathophysiology, leading to targeted therapies.
- Approved anti-CGRP monoclonal antibodies and gepants show efficacy in migraine treatment.
- Emerging roles in chronic pain, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and neurodegeneration are under investigation.
- Long-term safety data for anti-CGRP antibodies are available, with some cardiovascular risk signals noted.
Conclusions:
- The CGRP system is a critical target for therapeutic intervention, particularly in migraine.
- Further research is needed to translate preclinical findings in other diseases to clinical applications.
- Future directions include developing novel CGRP modulators and expanding therapeutic applications.
- Understanding the CGRP system offers potential for treating a range of neurological and other disorders.
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