Calcitonin gene-related peptide

Calcitonin gene-related peptide or CGRP is a neurosensory peptide that has a key role in pain and is a key sensory neurotransmitter involved in immune function, and is mainly expressed in the central and peripheral sensory nerves. CGRP is part of the calcitonin gene family. CGRP triggers migraines in people who experience migraines but not in others.

Known isoforms of CGRP are αCGRP (alpha CGRP) and βCGRP (beta CGRP).

Purpose
The nervous system and immune system release CGRP when transient receptor potential vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV1) is activated. CGRP regulates inflammation in the skin, has a key role in neurogenic inflammation and has protective effects on the heart.

αCGRP
αCGRP or CGRP-I is a vasodilator, appears to act as an immunomodulator, and may affect the inflammatory cascade to a pathological threat.

βCGRP
βCGRP or CGRP-II.

ME/CFS
αCGRP is the main isotype in sensory neurons in the dorsal root ganglion.

Evidence
CGRP antagonists have been found to be effective in the treatment and prevention of migraines.

News and interviews

 * Interview with Dr. Goadsby, what to expect of CGRP - Migraine.com