Human migraine models

Cephalalgia. 2001 Sep;21(7):781-5. doi: 10.1111/j.1468-2982.2001.00250.x.

Abstract

The need for experimental models is obvious. In animal models it is possible to study vascular responses, neurogenic inflammation, c-fos expression etc. However, the pathophysiology of migraine remains unsolved, why results from animal studies not directly can be related to the migraine attack, which is a human experience. A set-up for investigations of experimental headache and migraine in humans, has been evaluated and headache mechanisms explored by using nitroglycerin and other headache-inducing agents. Nitric oxide (NO) or other parts of the NO activated cascade seems to be responsible for the induced headache and migraine. Perspectives are discussed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cerebrovascular Circulation / drug effects
  • Cerebrovascular Circulation / physiology
  • Humans
  • Migraine Disorders* / chemically induced
  • Migraine Disorders* / physiopathology
  • Models, Neurological*
  • Nitroglycerin
  • Vasodilator Agents

Substances

  • Vasodilator Agents
  • Nitroglycerin