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Yang MF, Ren DX, Pan X, Li CX, Xu SY. The Role of Astrocytes in Migraine with Cortical Spreading Depression: Protagonists or Bystanders? A Narrative Review. Pain Ther 2024; 13:679-690. [PMID: 38743247 PMCID: PMC11255162 DOI: 10.1007/s40122-024-00610-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Cortical spreading depression (CSD) is a slow wave of cortical depolarization closely associated with migraines with an aura. Previously, it was thought that CSD depolarization was mainly driven by neurons, with characteristic changes in neuronal swelling and increased extracellular potassium (K+) and glutamate. However, the role of astrocytes, a member of the neurovascular unit, in migraine with CSD has recently received increasing attention. In the early stages of CSD, astrocytes provide neurons with energy support and clear K+ and glutamate from synaptic gaps. However, in the late stages of CSD, astrocytes release large amounts of lactic acid to exacerbate hypoxia when the energy demand exceeds the astrocytes' compensatory capacity. Astrocyte endfoot swelling is a characteristic of CSD, and neurons are not similarly altered. It is primarily due to K+ influx and abnormally active calcium (Ca2+) signaling. Aquaporin 4 (AQP-4) only mediates K+ influx and has little role as an aquaporin. Astrocytes endfoot swelling causes perivascular space closure, slowing the glymphatic system flow and exacerbating neuroinflammation, leading to persistent CSD. Astrocytes are double-edged swords in migraine with CSD and may be potential targets for CSD interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Fan Yang
- Department of Neurology, Headache Center, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Jiefangnan 85 Road, Taiyuan,, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Dong-Xue Ren
- Department of Neurology, Headache Center, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Jiefangnan 85 Road, Taiyuan,, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Xue Pan
- Department of Neurology, Headache Center, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Jiefangnan 85 Road, Taiyuan,, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Chang-Xin Li
- Department of Neurology, Headache Center, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Jiefangnan 85 Road, Taiyuan,, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Sui-Yi Xu
- Department of Neurology, Headache Center, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Jiefangnan 85 Road, Taiyuan,, 030001, Shanxi, China.
- Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Center for Cerebrovascular Diseases Research, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China.
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Dalkara T, Kaya Z, Erdener ŞE. Unraveling the interplay of neuroinflammatory signaling between parenchymal and meningeal cells in migraine headache. J Headache Pain 2024; 25:124. [PMID: 39080518 PMCID: PMC11290240 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-024-01827-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The initiation of migraine headaches and the involvement of neuroinflammatory signaling between parenchymal and meningeal cells remain unclear. Experimental evidence suggests that a cascade of inflammatory signaling originating from neurons may extend to the meninges, thereby inducing neurogenic inflammation and headache. This review explores the role of parenchymal inflammatory signaling in migraine headaches, drawing upon recent advancements. BODY: Studies in rodents have demonstrated that sterile meningeal inflammation can stimulate and sensitize meningeal nociceptors, culminating in headaches. The efficacy of relatively blood-brain barrier-impermeable anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide antibodies and triptans in treating migraine attacks, both with and without aura, supports the concept of migraine pain originating in meninges. Additionally, PET studies utilizing inflammation markers have revealed meningeal inflammatory activity in patients experiencing migraine with aura, particularly over the occipital cortex generating visual auras. The parenchymal neuroinflammatory signaling involving neurons, astrocytes, and microglia, which eventually extends to the meninges, can link non-homeostatic perturbations in the insensate brain to pain-sensitive meninges. Recent experimental research has brought deeper insight into parenchymal signaling mechanisms: Neuronal pannexin-1 channels act as stress sensors, initiating the inflammatory signaling by inflammasome formation and high-mobility group box-1 release in response to transient perturbations such as cortical spreading depolarization (CSD) or synaptic metabolic insufficiency caused by transcriptional changes induced by migraine triggers like sleep deprivation and stress. After a single CSD, astrocytes respond by upregulating the transcription of proinflammatory enzymes and mediators, while microglia are involved in restoring neuronal structural integrity; however, repeated CSDs may prompt microglia to adopt a pro-inflammatory state. Transcriptional changes from pro- to anti-inflammatory within 24 h may serve to dampen the inflammatory signaling. The extensive coverage of brain surface and perivascular areas by astrocyte endfeet suggests their role as an interface for transporting inflammatory mediators to the cerebrospinal fluid to contribute to meningeal nociception. CONCLUSION We propose that neuronal stress induced by CSD or synaptic activity-energy mismatch may initiate a parenchymal inflammatory signaling cascade, transmitted to the meninges, thereby triggering lasting headaches characteristic of migraine, with or without aura. This neuroinflammatory interplay between parenchymal and meningeal cells points to the potential for novel targets for migraine treatment and prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Turgay Dalkara
- Departments of Neuroscience and, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Zeynep Kaya
- Department of Neurology, Başkent University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Şefik Evren Erdener
- Institute of Neurological Sciences and Psychiatry, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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Thomsen AV, Al-Karagholi MAM, Hougaard A, Ostrowski SR, Pedersen OB, Hansen TF, Ashina M. Investigations of the migraine-provoking effect of levcromakalim in patients with migraine with aura. Cephalalgia 2024; 44:3331024241237247. [PMID: 38501895 DOI: 10.1177/03331024241237247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/HYPOTHESIS Experimental provocation studies have yielded important insights in migraine pathophysiology. Levcromakalim has been previously shown to induce migraine-like attacks with and without aura. In this study, we aim to further explore the migraine aura-inducing potential of levcromakalim. METHODS In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over study, 27 adult participants with migraine with aura received intravenous infusions of levcromakalim and saline. Headache, aura and associated symptoms were evaluated for 24 hours following administration of the study drug. The primary endpoint was occurrence of migraine-like attacks with or without aura in the 24-hour observation period. RESULTS Thirteen participants developed migraine-like attacks on the active day only (P = 0.0098), and four participants developed aura on the active day only (P = 0.68). The median time to onset of migraine-like headache was three hours, and the median time to onset of aura was 27.5 minutes. CONCLUSION/INTERPRETATION Our findings affirm the potent migraine-inducing effect of levcromakalim. We observed a lower induction-rate of migraine aura than previously reported. Further studies are warranted to identify predictors of migraine aura following levcromakalim. CLINICALTRIALS.GOV IDENTIFIER NCT04905654.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Vinther Thomsen
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet - Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mohammad Al-Mahdi Al-Karagholi
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet - Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Hougaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Sisse Rye Ostrowski
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ole Birger Pedersen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Zealand University Hospital, Køge, Denmark
| | - Thomas Folkmann Hansen
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet - Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Brunak Lab, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Messoud Ashina
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet - Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Danish Knowledge Center on Headache Disorders, Glostrup, Denmark
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4
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Blaeser AS, Zhao J, Sugden AU, Carneiro-Nascimento S, Andermann ML, Levy D. Sensitization of meningeal afferents to locomotion-related meningeal deformations in a migraine model. eLife 2024; 12:RP91871. [PMID: 38329894 PMCID: PMC10942541 DOI: 10.7554/elife.91871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Migraine headache is hypothesized to involve the activation and sensitization of trigeminal sensory afferents that innervate the cranial meninges. To better understand migraine pathophysiology and improve clinical translation, we used two-photon calcium imaging via a closed cranial window in awake mice to investigate changes in the responses of meningeal afferent fibers using a preclinical model of migraine involving cortical spreading depolarization (CSD). A single CSD episode caused a seconds-long wave of calcium activation that propagated across afferents and along the length of individual afferents. Surprisingly, unlike previous studies in anesthetized animals with exposed meninges, only a very small afferent population was persistently activated in our awake mouse preparation, questioning the relevance of this neuronal response to the onset of migraine pain. In contrast, we identified a larger subset of meningeal afferents that developed augmented responses to acute three-dimensional meningeal deformations that occur in response to locomotion bouts. We observed increased responsiveness in a subset of afferents that were already somewhat sensitive to meningeal deformation before CSD. Furthermore, another subset of previously insensitive afferents also became sensitive to meningeal deformation following CSD. Our data provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying migraine, including the emergence of enhanced meningeal afferent responses to movement-related meningeal deformations as a potential neural substrate underlying the worsening of migraine headache during physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S Blaeser
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Jun Zhao
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Arthur U Sugden
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Simone Carneiro-Nascimento
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Mark L Andermann
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Dan Levy
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
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Blaeser AS, Zhao J, Sugden AU, Carneiro-Nascimento S, Andermann ML, Levy D. Sensitization of meningeal afferents to locomotion-related meningeal deformations in a migraine model. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.31.549838. [PMID: 37577675 PMCID: PMC10418100 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.31.549838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Migraine headache is hypothesized to involve the activation and sensitization of trigeminal sensory afferents that innervate the cranial meninges. To better understand migraine pathophysiology and improve clinical translation, we used two-photon calcium imaging via a closed cranial window in awake mice to investigate changes in the responses of meningeal afferent fibers using a preclinical model of migraine involving cortical spreading depolarization (CSD). A single CSD episode caused a seconds-long wave of calcium activation that propagated across afferents and along the length of individual afferents. Surprisingly, unlike previous studies in anesthetized animals with exposed meninges, only a very small afferent population was persistently activated in our awake mouse preparation, questioning the relevance of this neuronal response to the onset of migraine pain. In contrast, we identified a larger subset of meningeal afferents that developed augmented responses to acute three-dimensional meningeal deformations that occur in response to locomotion bouts. We observed increased responsiveness in a subset of afferents that were already somewhat sensitive to meningeal deformation before CSD. Furthermore, another subset of previously insensitive afferents also became sensitive to meningeal deformation following CSD. Our data provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying migraine, including the emergence of enhanced meningeal afferent responses to movement-related meningeal deformations as a potential neural substrate underlying the worsening of migraine headache during physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S Blaeser
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Jun Zhao
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Arthur U Sugden
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Simone Carneiro-Nascimento
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Mark L Andermann
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Dan Levy
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
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Androulakis XM, Yu X, Zhu X, Thiam MA, Cai G. Migraine and major depression: localizing shared genetic susceptibility in different cell types of the nervous systems. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1254290. [PMID: 38033772 PMCID: PMC10684773 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1254290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There is a bidirectional relationship between migraine and major depression disorder (MDD). They likely share important risk genes associated with different cell types in the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS). Profiling the expression of these genes in specific cell types is critical in understanding the pathophysiology of the relationship between migraine and MDD. Methods Associated genes shared by migraine and MDD were identified by consolidating multiple curations of human disease-gene associations. Subsequently, the expression of overlapping genes was profiled and compared across the different cell types in CNS, PNS and neurovascular cells using eight single cell RNA sequencing datasets, including two human CNS datasets, two mouse CNS datasets, one human PNS dataset and three mouse PNS datasets. Results 45 shared genes between migraine and MDD were identified. Consistently found in all eight datasets, dopaminergic and serotonergic neurotransmitters were broadly expressed in CNS and PNS cell types. Glutamatergic and endocannabinoid genes were specifically expressed in CNS neurons and astrocytes. Synthesis and/or Release and Binding of Neuropeptides were specifically expressed in PNS peptidergic nociceptor (PEP). Genes related to inflammatory factors and immune responses were specifically expressed in CNS microglia. Among which, IL1B and COMT were highly expressed in CNS microglia cells. Conclusion Single cell RNA sequencing of the CNS and PNS helps to identify the shared genes between migraine and MDD that are enriched in specific cell types. The findings provide new insight in understanding the underlying mechanism of action for the bidirectional co-morbidity between migraine and MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xuanxuan Yu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Xia Zhu
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Melinda A. Thiam
- Department of Psychiatry, New Mexico VA Healthcare Care System, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Guoshuai Cai
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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7
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Zhao J, Harrison S, Levy D. Meningeal P2X7 Signaling Mediates Migraine-Related Intracranial Mechanical Hypersensitivity. J Neurosci 2023; 43:5975-5985. [PMID: 37487740 PMCID: PMC10436684 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0368-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cortical spreading depolarization (CSD) is a key pathophysiological event that underlies visual and sensory auras in migraine. CSD is also thought to drive the headache phase in migraine by promoting the activation and mechanical sensitization of trigeminal primary afferent nociceptive neurons that innervate the cranial meninges. The factors underlying meningeal nociception in the wake of CSD remain poorly understood but potentially involve the parenchymal release of algesic mediators and damage-associated molecular patterns, particularly ATP. Here, we explored the role of ATP-P2X purinergic receptor signaling in mediating CSD-evoked meningeal afferent activation and mechanical sensitization. Male rats were subjected to a single CSD episode. In vivo, extracellular single-unit recording was used to measure meningeal afferent ongoing activity changes. Quantitative mechanical stimuli using a servomotor force-controlled stimulator assessed changes in the afferent's mechanosensitivity. Manipulation of meningeal P2X receptors was achieved via local administration of pharmacological agents. Broad-spectrum P2X receptor inhibition, selective blockade of the P2X7 receptor, and its related Pannexin 1 channel suppressed CSD-evoked afferent mechanical sensitization but did not affect the accompanying afferent activation response. Surprisingly, inhibition of the pronociceptive P2X2/3 receptor did not affect the activation or sensitization of meningeal afferents post-CSD. P2X7 signaling underlying afferent mechanosensitization was localized to the meninges and did not affect CSD susceptibility. We propose that meningeal P2X7 and Pannexin 1 signaling, potentially in meningeal macrophages or neutrophils, mediates the mechanical sensitization of meningeal afferents, which contributes to migraine pain by exacerbating the headache during normally innocuous physical activities.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Activation and sensitization of meningeal afferents play a key role in migraine headache, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, using a rat model of migraine with aura involving cortical spreading depolarization (CSD), we demonstrate that meningeal purinergic P2X7 signaling and its related Pannexin 1 pore, but not nociceptive P2X2/3 receptors, mediate prolonged meningeal afferent sensitization. Additionally, we show that meningeal P2X signaling does not contribute to the increased afferent ongoing activity in the wake of CSD. Our finding points to meningeal P2X7 signaling as a critical mechanism underlying meningeal nociception in migraine, the presence of distinct mechanisms underlying the activation and sensitization of meningeal afferents in migraine, and highlight the need to target both processes for effective migraine therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhao
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Samantha Harrison
- Center for Anesthesia Research Excellence, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Dan Levy
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
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8
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Abstract
Migraine is a complex neurovascular pain disorder linked to the meninges, a border tissue innervated by neuropeptide-containing primary afferent fibers chiefly from the trigeminal nerve. Electrical or mechanical stimulation of this nerve surrounding large blood vessels evokes headache patterns as in migraine, and the brain, blood, and meninges are likely sources of headache triggers. Cerebrospinal fluid may play a significant role in migraine by transferring signals released from the brain to overlying pain-sensitive meningeal tissues, including dura mater. Interactions between trigeminal afferents, neuropeptides, and adjacent meningeal cells and tissues cause neurogenic inflammation, a critical target for current prophylactic and abortive migraine therapies. Here we review the importance of the cranial meninges to migraine headaches, explore the properties of trigeminal meningeal afferents, and briefly review emerging concepts, such as meningeal neuroimmune interactions, that may one day prove therapeutically relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Levy
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA;
| | - Michael A Moskowitz
- Center for Systems Biology and Departments of Radiology and Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA;
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9
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Zhao J, Harrison S, Levy D. Meningeal P2X7 signaling mediates migraine-related intracranial mechanical hypersensitivity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.02.526853. [PMID: 36778299 PMCID: PMC9915648 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.02.526853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cortical spreading depolarization (CSD) is a key pathophysiological event that underlies visual and sensory auras in migraine. CSD is also thought to drive the headache phase in migraine by promoting the activation and mechanical sensitization of trigeminal primary afferent nociceptive neurons that innervate the cranial meninges. The factors underlying meningeal nociception in the wake of CSD remain poorly understood but potentially involve the parenchymal release of algesic mediators and damage-associated molecular patterns, particularly ATP. Here, we explored the role of ATP-P2X purinergic receptor signaling in mediating CSD-evoked meningeal afferent activation and mechanical sensitization. Male rats were subjected to a single CSD episode. In vivo, extracellular single-unit recording was used to measure meningeal afferent ongoing activity changes. Quantitative mechanical stimuli using a servomotor force-controlled stimulator assessed changes in the afferent's mechanosensitivity. Manipulation of meningeal P2X receptors was achieved via local administration of pharmacological agents. Broad-spectrum P2X receptor inhibition, selective blockade of the P2X7 receptor, and its related pannexin 1 channel suppressed CSD-evoked afferent mechanical sensitization but did not affect the accompanying afferent activation response. Surprisingly, inhibition of the pronociceptive P2X2/3 receptor did not affect the activation or sensitization of meningeal afferents post-CSD. P2X7 signaling underlying afferent mechanosensitization was localized to the meninges and did not affect CSD susceptibility. We propose that meningeal P2X7 and Pannexin 1 signaling, potentially in meningeal macrophages or neutrophils, mediates the mechanical sensitization of meningeal afferents, which contributes to migraine pain by exacerbating the headache during normally innocuous physical activities. Significance Statement Activation and sensitization of meningeal afferents play a key role in migraine headache, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, using a rat model of migraine with aura involving cortical spreading depolarization (CSD), we demonstrate that meningeal purinergic P2X7 signaling and its related Pannexin 1 pore, but not nociceptive P2X2/3 receptors, mediate prolonged meningeal afferent sensitization. Additionally, we show that meningeal P2X signaling does not contribute to the increased afferent ongoing activity in the wake of CSD. Our finding points to meningeal P2X7 signaling as a critical mechanism underlying meningeal nociception in migraine, the presence of distinct mechanisms underlying the activation and sensitization of meningeal afferents in migraine, and highlight the need to target both processes for effective migraine therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhao
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Samantha Harrison
- Center for Anesthesia Research Excellence, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Dan Levy
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
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10
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Yang L, Xu M, Bhuiyan SA, Li J, Zhao J, Cohrs RJ, Susterich JT, Signorelli S, Green U, Stone JR, Levy D, Lennerz JK, Renthal W. Human and mouse trigeminal ganglia cell atlas implicates multiple cell types in migraine. Neuron 2022; 110:1806-1821.e8. [PMID: 35349784 PMCID: PMC9338779 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2022.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Sensitization of trigeminal ganglion neurons contributes to primary headache disorders such as migraine, but the specific neuronal and non-neuronal trigeminal subtypes that are involved remain unclear. We thus developed a cell atlas in which human and mouse trigeminal ganglia are transcriptionally and epigenomically profiled at single-cell resolution. These data describe evolutionarily conserved and human-specific gene expression patterns within each trigeminal ganglion cell type, as well as the transcription factors and gene regulatory elements that contribute to cell-type-specific gene expression. We then leveraged these data to identify trigeminal ganglion cell types that are implicated both by human genetic variation associated with migraine and two mouse models of headache. This trigeminal ganglion cell atlas improves our understanding of the cell types, genes, and epigenomic features involved in headache pathophysiology and establishes a rich resource of cell-type-specific molecular features to guide the development of more selective treatments for headache and facial pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lite Yang
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mengyi Xu
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Shamsuddin A Bhuiyan
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jia Li
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jun Zhao
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Randall J Cohrs
- Departments of Neurology and Immunology/Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Justin T Susterich
- Department of Pathology, Center for Integrated Diagnostics, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Sylvia Signorelli
- Department of Pathology, Center for Integrated Diagnostics, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Ursula Green
- Department of Pathology, Center for Integrated Diagnostics, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - James R Stone
- Department of Pathology, Center for Integrated Diagnostics, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Dan Levy
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jochen K Lennerz
- Department of Pathology, Center for Integrated Diagnostics, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - William Renthal
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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11
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Carneiro-Nascimento S, Levy D. Cortical spreading depression and meningeal nociception. NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN 2022; 11:100091. [PMID: 35518782 PMCID: PMC9065921 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2022.100091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
CSD evoked persistent activation and mechanical sensitization of dural nociceptors is likely to drive the headache phase in migraine with aura. The development of neurogenic-mediated dural vasodilatation and increased plasma protein extravasation in the wake of CSD may not contribute to meningeal nociception. Cortical vasoconstriction and reduced oxygen availability following CSD do not contribute to meningeal nociception. Cortical neuroinflammation, involving neuronal pannexin1 and calcium-independent astrocytic signaling drive meningeal nociception following CSD. CSD-related closing of K(ATP) channels and release of COX-driven prostanoids mediate the activation and sensitization of dural nociceptors respectively.
Migraine results in an enormous burden on individuals and societies due to its high prevalence, significant disability, and considerable economic costs. Current treatment options for migraine remain inadequate, and the development of novel therapies is severely hindered by the incomplete understanding of the mechanisms responsible for the pain. The sensory innervation of the cranial meninges is now considered a key player in migraine headache genesis. Recent studies have significantly advanced our understanding of some of the processes that drive meningeal nociceptive neurons, which may be targeted therapeutically to abort or prevent migraine pain. In this review we will summarize our current understanding of the mechanisms that contribute to the genesis of the headache in one migraine subtype – migraine with aura. We will focus on animal studies that address the notion that cortical spreading depression is a critical process that drives meningeal nociception in migraine with aura, and discuss recent insights into some of the proposed underlying mechanisms.
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Zhao J, Blaeser AS, Levy D. Astrocytes mediate migraine-related intracranial meningeal mechanical hypersensitivity. Pain 2021; 162:2386-2396. [PMID: 34448752 PMCID: PMC8406410 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The genesis of the headache phase in migraine with aura is thought to be mediated by cortical spreading depression (CSD) and the subsequent activation and sensitization of primary afferent neurons that innervate the intracranial meninges and their related large vessels. Yet, the exact mechanisms underlying this peripheral meningeal nociceptive response remain poorly understood. We investigated the relative contribution of cortical astrocytes to CSD-evoked meningeal nociception using extracellular single-unit recording of meningeal afferent activity and 2-photon imaging of cortical astrocyte calcium activity, in combination with 2 pharmacological approaches to inhibit astrocytic function. We found that fluoroacetate and l-α-aminoadipate, which inhibit astrocytes through distinct mechanisms, suppressed CSD-evoked afferent mechanical sensitization, but did not affect afferent activation. Pharmacological inhibition of astrocytic function, which ameliorated meningeal afferents' sensitization, reduced basal astrocyte calcium activity but had a minimal effect on the astrocytic calcium wave during CSD. We propose that calcium-independent signaling in cortical astrocytes plays an important role in driving the sensitization of meningeal afferents and the ensuing intracranial mechanical hypersensitivity in migraine with aura.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhao
- Departments of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Andrew S. Blaeser
- Departments of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Dan Levy
- Departments of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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Brain Energy Deficit as a Source of Oxidative Stress in Migraine: A Molecular Basis for Migraine Susceptibility. Neurochem Res 2021; 46:1913-1932. [PMID: 33939061 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03335-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
People with migraine are prone to a brain energy deficit between attacks, through increased energy demand (hyperexcitable brain) or decreased supply (mitochondrial impairment). However, it is uncertain how this precipitates an acute attack. Here, the central role of oxidative stress is adduced. Specifically, neurons' antioxidant defenses rest ultimately on internally generated NADPH (reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate), whose levels are tightly coupled to energy production. Mitochondrial NADPH is produced primarily by enzymes involved in energy generation, including isocitrate dehydrogenase of the Krebs (tricarboxylic acid) cycle; and an enzyme, nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase (NNT), that depends on the Krebs cycle and oxidative phosphorylation to function, and that works in reverse, consuming antioxidants, when energy generation fails. In migraine aura, cortical spreading depression (CSD) causes an initial severe drop in level of NADH (reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), causing NNT to impair antioxidant defense. This is followed by functional hypoxia and a rebound in NADH, in which the electron transport chain overproduces oxidants. In migraine without aura, a similar biphasic fluctuation in NADH very likely generates oxidants in cortical regions farthest from capillaries and penetrating arterioles. Thus, the perturbations in brain energy demand and/or production seen in migraine are likely sufficient to cause oxidative stress, triggering an attack through oxidant-sensing nociceptive ion channels. Implications are discussed for the development of new classes of migraine preventives, for the current use of C57BL/6J mice (which lack NNT) in preclinical studies of migraine, for how a microembolism initiates CSD, and for how CSD can trigger a migraine.
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Al-Karagholi MAM, Ghanizada H, Nielsen CAW, Hougaard A, Ashina M. Opening of ATP sensitive potassium channels causes migraine attacks with aura. Brain 2021; 144:2322-2332. [PMID: 33768245 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Migraine afflicts more than one billion individuals worldwide and is a leading cause of years lived with disability. In about a third of individuals with migraine aura occur in relation to migraine headache. The common pathophysiological mechanisms underlying migraine headache and migraine aura are yet to be identified. Based on recent data, we hypothesized that levcromakalim, an ATP-sensitive potassium channel opener, would trigger migraine attacks with aura in migraine with aura patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Al-Mahdi Al-Karagholi
- Danish Headache Center, Dept. of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hashmat Ghanizada
- Danish Headache Center, Dept. of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Cherie Amalie Waldorff Nielsen
- Danish Headache Center, Dept. of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Hougaard
- Danish Headache Center, Dept. of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Messoud Ashina
- Danish Headache Center, Dept. of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.,Danish Headache Knowledge Center, Rigshospitalet - Glostrup, Valdemar Hansens Vej 5, DK-2600 Glostrup, Denmark
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15
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Abstract
Migraine is among the most common and most disabling disorders worldwide, yet its underlying pathophysiology is among the most poorly understood. New information continues to emerge on mechanisms within the central and peripheral nervous systems that may contribute to migraine attacks. Additionally, new therapeutics have recently become available and along with much needed relief for many patients, these drugs provide insight into the disorder based on their mechanism of action. This review will cover new findings within the last several years that add to the understanding of migraine pathophysiology, including those related to the vasculature, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), and mechanisms within the cortex and meninges that may contribute to attacks. Discussion will also cover recent findings on novel therapeutic targets, several of which continue to show promise in new preclinical studies, including acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) and the delta-opioid receptor (DOR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg Dussor
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080
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Al‐Karagholi MA, Ghanizada H, Hansen JM, Skovgaard LT, Olesen J, Larsson HBW, Amin FM, Ashina M. Levcromakalim, an Adenosine Triphosphate‐Sensitive Potassium Channel Opener, Dilates Extracerebral but not Cerebral Arteries. Headache 2019; 59:1468-1480. [DOI: 10.1111/head.13634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Al‐Mahdi Al‐Karagholi
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet‐Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Hashmat Ghanizada
- Glostrup Research Park, Rigshospitalet‐Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Jakob M. Hansen
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet‐Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Lene T. Skovgaard
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Jes Olesen
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet‐Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
- Glostrup Research Park, Rigshospitalet‐Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Henrik B. W. Larsson
- Functional Imaging Unit, Department of Clinical Physiology, Nuclear Medicine and PET, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Faisal M. Amin
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet‐Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Messoud Ashina
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet‐Glostrup, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
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Harriott AM, Takizawa T, Chung DY, Chen SP. Spreading depression as a preclinical model of migraine. J Headache Pain 2019; 20:45. [PMID: 31046659 PMCID: PMC6734429 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-019-1001-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Spreading depression (SD) is a slowly propagating wave of near-complete depolarization of neurons and glial cells across the cortex. SD is thought to contribute to the underlying pathophysiology of migraine aura, and possibly also an intrinsic brain activity causing migraine headache. Experimental models of SD have recapitulated multiple migraine-related phenomena and are considered highly translational. In this review, we summarize conventional and novel methods to trigger SD, with specific focus on optogenetic methods. We outline physiological triggers that might affect SD susceptibility, review a multitude of physiological, biochemical, and behavioral consequences of SD, and elaborate their relevance to migraine pathophysiology. The possibility of constructing a recurrent episodic or chronic migraine model using SD is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea M Harriott
- Neurovascular Research Lab, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA.,Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tsubasa Takizawa
- Neurovascular Research Lab, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA.,Department of Neurology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - David Y Chung
- Neurovascular Research Lab, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA.,Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shih-Pin Chen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Brain Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Division of Translational Research, Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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