Brain mechanisms underlying migraine: what causes it?

Research describes how migraines, a common and debilitating form of headache, involve complex processes in the body. Researchers from the University of Copenhagen and the University of Rochester have investigated a phenomenon called cortical spreading depression (CSD), which appears to play a crucial role. Headaches are one of the most common disorders of the nervous system. You may have never heard the word, but you’ve probably experienced it. Headaches are, simply put, headaches.

Among them, migraine is the most well-known. According to the WHO, it usually appears during puberty and mainly affects the group of people between the ages of 35 and 45. And although it may be very common (the global prevalence of headache in adults at least once in the last year is estimated to be about 50%), much is still unknown about the physical and biological processes that occur inside the body with migraine. (Can see:

Migraine is known to involve a complex interaction of genetic, neurochemical, and environmental factors that affect the central nervous system. Among the mechanisms involved are changes in neuronal excitability, changes in the regulation of cerebral blood flow, and the involvement of well-known neurotransmitters such as serotonin. But little is known in detail. A new study published in the journal Science seeks to shed some light.

The study, conducted by researchers from the University of Copenhagen and the University of Rochester, examines how migraines occur in the body. It is believed that a phenomenon called cortical spreading depression (CSD) could play a major role. To better understand this, imagine a “wave” that reduces activity in certain areas of the brain. Scientists used mice to discover that this wave could change proteins in the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, called cerebrospinal fluid.

By increasing the amount of certain proteins, they can activate the trigeminal nerve, which is associated with headaches. This can trigger migraines, especially those involving a certain part of the trigeminal nerve that was previously not considered important. This nerve is one of the most important nerves in the head and neck. It is responsible for sensation in the face, including the skin, the chewing muscles, and some parts of the ear. It also controls the muscles that allow chewing.

Scientists believe that when the cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord enters part of this nerve, communication is established between the brain and these nerve cells. In their study, they found that this fluid can change and activate the trigeminal nerve cells after that “wave” we mentioned at the beginning. This could explain how temporary neurological problems, such as the aura of a migraine, are associated with headaches.

The researchers believe this reveals a new, previously unknown pathway of communication between the brain and the peripheral nervous system that could open the door to new forms of treatment. (Can see: Prepare for an avalanche of private insurance?)

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