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Discovery of novel mechanisms that cause migraines

A new mechanism has been discovered for the onset of migraines, involving a mutation in a protein that inhibits neuronal electrical activity. This finding opens a new path for the development of anti-migraine medicines by targeting K2P2.1 channels to reduce neuronal excitability.

SourceCNRS·JournalNeuron·DateDec 17, 2018

Why do women get more migraines?

A study published in Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences suggests that sex hormones, particularly estrogen, play a key role in migraine occurrence in women. The research found that estrogen levels sensitize cells around the trigeminal nerve to stimuli, making it easier to trigger a migraine attack.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Biosciences·DateAug 14, 2018

Your brain with a migraine

An international team of researchers has identified the electrical activity specific to the start of migraines and demonstrated a way to stop it in animal experiments. They found that spreading depolarization, seen in migraines, can be stopped with an opposite direction of electrical current used to turn off seizures.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 27, 2018

Study sheds light on genetic foundation of migraines

A new study published in Neuron reveals that common genetic variants are the primary drivers of migraine risk, with a greater burden of variants linked to earlier onset and more severe symptoms. The research also found that rare Mendelian genes play a smaller role in shaping the genetic landscape of migraines.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateMay 3, 2018

The headache of adapting to the cold

Researchers discovered a genetic variant associated with migraine headaches that is more common in people living in colder climates and higher latitudes. This variant may have helped early humans adapt to the cold, contributing to its high frequency in European populations and higher prevalence among individuals suffering from migraines.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMay 3, 2018

Migraine surgery produces 'dramatic improvements' in functioning, study finds

A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that migraine surgery can lead to significant improvements in functional disability and ability to cope with pain. Patients who underwent surgery showed a large percent improvement in Pain Self Efficacy Questionnaire scores, indicating high levels of recovery from disability.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateJan 2, 2018

Chronic migraine cases are amplified by jawbone disorder, according to research

Researchers found that chronic migraine patients are three times as likely to suffer from severe temporomandibular disorder (TMD), which causes difficulty chewing and joint tension. The study suggests that TMD may increase the frequency and severity of migraine attacks, but it does not directly cause the condition.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics·DateSep 22, 2017