Headache Pathogenesis: Monoamines, Neuropeptides, Purines, and Nitric Oxide (Frontiers in Headache Research)

In this volume, leading international experts explore the role of several messenger molecules in the pathogenesis of migraine, tension-type headache, and cluster headache. Coverage includes extensive studies of these molecules and their receptors in the cranial blood vessels, as well as measurements in patients during actual migraine and other headache attacks. The findings presented are of vital importance for the development of new antimigraine drugs targeted to specific receptors.A major portion of the book examines new evidence that nitric oxide plays a crucial role in migraine and other vascular headaches. Close attention is also given to the involvement of amines, amino acids, and neuropeptides--particularly substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide--in vascular headaches. Other chapters focus on messenger molecules that are involved in the sensitization of nociceptors.