Neurological expert Peter Goadsby discusses the symptoms and prevalence of migraines, his breakthrough research on migraine causes, and new treatments that can prevent migraines. He explores the role of the trigeminal nerve, the discovery of a neuropeptide called CGRP, and the use of monoclonal antibodies and G-Pants in treating migraines. Goadsby reflects on his childhood curiosity and the intersection of medicine and research.
Professor Peter Goadsby's research on the trigeminal nerve and CGRP has led to the development of new medications that can effectively treat and prevent migraines.
The advancements made by Professor Goadsby in understanding the biology of migraines have challenged previous misconceptions and opened doors for the development of more effective medications in the future.
Deep dives
Understanding the Biology of Migraines
Professor Peter Goadsby, a pioneer in the field of headache and migraine, has made significant advancements in understanding the biology of migraines. Migraines are a neurological condition that affects over a billion people worldwide, with symptoms including throbbing head, nausea, dizziness, and disturbed vision. Despite the availability of medications, not all patients find relief, and the cause of migraine attacks was poorly understood until recently. Professor Goadsby's research has focused on the trigeminal nerve, which serves pain in the head, and the neuropeptide calcitonin-gene-related peptide (CGRP) that is released during migraine attacks. His findings have led to the development of new medications, such as G-Pants and monoclonal antibodies, which target CGRP and its receptors, providing effective treatment and prevention options for migraines.
Challenges in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Migraines
Migraines were historically misunderstood and not taken seriously, particularly due to their association with women and menstruation. Diagnosis relied heavily on the judgment of senior physicians, and treatment options were limited and often accompanied by side effects. However, Professor Goadsby's research has shed light on the true underlying mechanisms of migraines and challenged previous notions that attributed the pain solely to blood vessel dilation. By focusing on the nerves, particularly the trigeminal nerve, and studying the release of CGRP, new insights have been gained. This understanding has led to the development of medications like G-Pants and monoclonal antibodies, which offer hope and relief to patients who have not responded to previous treatments.
Advancements in Migraine Medications and Patient Impact
The advancements made by Professor Goadsby and his colleagues have transformed the landscape of migraine treatment. Traditional medications like tryptons, which primarily target the serotonin system, have been effective for some patients but come with limitations and side effects. The development of G-Pants and monoclonal antibodies, specifically designed to address CGRP and its receptors, provides new treatment options. These medications have shown promise not only in treating acute migraine attacks but also in preventing their onset. In fact, some patients have experienced life-changing improvements in their quality of life. While not all patients benefit equally, the progress made in understanding the biology of migraines opens doors for further research and the development of even more effective medications in the future.
Throbbing head, nausea, dizziness, disturbed vision – just some of the disabling symptoms that can strike during a migraine attack. This neurological condition is far more common than you might think, affecting more people than diabetes, epilepsy and asthma combined.
While medications, to help relieve the symptoms of migraine, have been around for some time, they haven’t worked for everyone. And what happens in the brain during a migraine attack was, until recently, poorly understood.
Peter Goadsby is Professor of Neurology at King's College London’s Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience and is a true pioneer in the field of migraine.
Over the course of his career, he has unravelled what happens in the brain during a migraine attack and his insights are already benefiting patients - in the form of new medications that can not only treat a migraine, but also prevent it from occurring.
Peter shares this year’s Brain Prize, the world's largest prize for brain research, with three other internationally renowned scientists in the field.
Producer: Beth Eastwood
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