Activation and sensitization of meningeal nociceptors by PACAP-38: implications for migraine headache - Takeaways - MDSpire

Activation and sensitization of meningeal nociceptors by PACAP-38: implications for migraine headache

  • By

  • Rune Häckert Christensen

  • Andrew Strassman

  • Messoud Ashina

  • Håkan Ashina

  • Rami Burstein

  • August 6, 2025

  • 0 min

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  • 1

    PACAP-38 is implicated in migraine headaches, activating meningeal nociceptors and inducing headache in migraine sufferers.

  • 2

    In vivo recordings showed that PACAP-38 activated 50% of meningeal nociceptors at a human-equivalent dose.

  • 3

    Both C-fibres and Aδ-fibres were activated by PACAP-38, indicating its effect on different types of meningeal nociceptors.

  • 4

    The study suggests that PACAP-38 induces headache through peripheral mechanisms rather than central effects.

  • 5

    Findings support the potential for targeting PACAP to develop therapies for migraine and headache disorders.

Original Source(s)

Activation and sensitization of meningeal nociceptors by PACAP-38: implications for migraine headache

  • by Rune Häckert Christensen, Andrew Strassman, Messoud Ashina, Håkan Ashina, Rami Burstein

  • August 6, 2025

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