The Role of TRP Channels in Migraine

Abstract

TRP channels are members of a large family of non-selective cation channels. The family which numbers over 30 is classified into 6 groups based on amino acid sequence homology. TRP channels are distributed in many peripheral tissues as well as central and peripheral nervous system. These channels are important in sensing a wide range of chemical and physical stimuli. Several TRP channels, including TRPV1 and TRPA1 are important in pain transduction pathways. This review will focus on the function of TRP channels in the trigeminovascular system and other anatomical regions which are relevant to migraine. We will discuss the possible role of TRP channels in migraine, including the potential role of TRPV1 in the hypersensitivity and allodynia frequently observed in migraine patients. We will review the status of TRP channel drugs in migraine therapeutics. We will also discuss the possible roles of TRP channels in triggering migraine attacks, a process which is not well-understood.