Preprint Review Version 2 Preserved in Portico This version is not peer-reviewed

From CGRP to PACAP: Unraveling the Next Chapter in Migraine Treatment

Version 1 : Received: 5 September 2023 / Approved: 6 September 2023 / Online: 7 September 2023 (11:27:05 CEST)
Version 2 : Received: 16 October 2023 / Approved: 16 October 2023 / Online: 17 October 2023 (10:50:15 CEST)

A peer-reviewed article of this Preprint also exists.

Tanaka, M.; Szabó, Á.; Körtési, T.; Szok, D.; Tajti, J.; Vécsei, L. From CGRP to PACAP, VIP, and Beyond: Unraveling the Next Chapters in Migraine Treatment. Cells 2023, 12, 2649. Tanaka, M.; Szabó, Á.; Körtési, T.; Szok, D.; Tajti, J.; Vécsei, L. From CGRP to PACAP, VIP, and Beyond: Unraveling the Next Chapters in Migraine Treatment. Cells 2023, 12, 2649.

Abstract

Migraine is a neurovascular disorder that can be debilitating for individuals and society. Current research focuses on finding effective analgesics and management strategies for migraines by targeting specific receptors and neuropeptides. Nevertheless, the responder rates of recently approved calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and receptor inhibitors remain around 50 percent. To address the need for novel therapeutic targets, researchers are exploring the potential of another secretin family peptide, pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP), as a ground-breaking treatment avenue for migraine. Preclinical models have revealed how PACAP affects the trigeminal system, which is implicated in headache disorders. Clinical studies have demonstrated the significance of PACAP in migraine pathophysiology; however, a few clinical trials remain inconclusive: the pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide 1 receptor mAb, AMG 301 showed no benefit for migraine prevention, while the PACAP ligand mAb, Lu AG09222 significantly reduced the number of monthly migraine days over placebo in a phase 2 clinical trial. Meanwhile, another secretin family peptide vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is gaining interest as a potential new target. In light of recent advances in PACAP research, we emphasize the potential of PACAP as a promising target for migraine treatment, highlighting the significance of exploring PACAP as a member of the antimigraine armamentarium, especially for patients who do not respond to or contraindicated to anti-CGRP therapies. By updating our knowledge on PACAP and its unique contribution to migraine pathophysiology, we can pave the way for reinforcing PACAP and other secretin peptides, including VIP, as a novel treatment option for migraines.

Keywords

migraine disorders; headache disorders; nociceptive pain; analgesics; calcitonin gene-related peptide; pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP); vasoactive intestinal peptide; adrenomedullin; neuropeptides; drug development

Subject

Medicine and Pharmacology, Neuroscience and Neurology

Comments (1)

Comment 1
Received: 17 October 2023
Commenter: Masaru Tanaka
Commenter's Conflict of Interests: Author
Comment: This version is revised according to the reviewers' suggestions.
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