5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and the initiation of migraine: new perspectives.
The hypothesis that 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) acting through 5-HT2C receptors is a key factor in the initiation of migraine has been re-evaluated in the light of recent basic and clinical scientific developments. The key findings are that nitric oxide is an important trigger for migraine, that 5-HT2B/5-HT2C receptors are present on endothelial cells and trigger nitric oxide release when activated and that supersensitivity of the 5-HT2B/5-HT2C receptor is a neurochemical feature predisposing to headache. Taken together the data bring new perspectives to the role of 5-HT acting through 5-HT2C (or closely similar) receptors in the initiation of migraine.
Fozard
J R
JR
Preclinical Research, Sandoz Pharma Ltd., Basel, Switzerland.
Kalkman
H O
HO
D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D008881:Migraine Disorders / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D011985:Receptors, Serotonin / Q000502:physiology; D012701:Serotonin / Q000502:physiology*
D011985:Receptors, Serotonin; D012701:Serotonin