Migraine mysteries unfold: genes, brain signals, and immune triggers
Researchers are reframing migraine as a complex brain disorder rather than a simple trigger-based headache. Genetics (30–60% heritability) and brain processes like cortical spreading depression, plus immune activity in the meninges, are increasingly linked to attacks, while many‑so‑called triggers may actually be early symptoms. The peptide CGRP rises during attacks, enabling new CGRP‑targeting therapies that help many patients, yet migraine likely involves multiple intertwined pathways and varies across individuals.
