2023 Volume 40 Issue 4 Pages 550-554
Calcitonin gene–related peptide (CGRP) is a 37–amino acid peptide primarily located in C and A delta sensory fibers of sensory nerves. These fibers are widely distributed in both central and peripheral perivascular areas and are believed to play a role in nociception by releasing CGRP from sensory nerves. Additionally, they are involved in the stimulation function of peripheral vascular smooth muscle cells and vascular endothelial cells through the descending transmission of CGRP from sensory nerve endings. The vasodilatory effect of CGRP release from trigeminal nerve endings on dural blood vessels is considered a critical pathway related to the pathogenesis of migraine. Based on these findings, a series of anti–CGRP antibody drugs targeting CGRP were launched in 2021. This overview of the pathophysiology of migraine provides a perspective for understanding the mechanism of action of these anti–CGRP antibody drugs.
