Neuropeptides Modulate Light and Trigeminal Signals In Migraine-Associated Photophobia (PC)

Photophobia is defined as an abnormal sensitivity to light and occurs in up to 90% of migraine patients. Not exclusive to migraine, other headache disorders often have concurrent photophobia. Neuropeptides are recognized as key contributors in migraine pathophysiology. This session will focus on neuropeptides and what we know about their role in the generation of photophobia. Neuropeptides such as CGPR, PACAP, Amylin, and VIP all can cause photophobia in mice. However, the focus of this presentation will be mostly on CGRP and PACAP in mice. I will describe where we think they are acting, what roles they are playing and how current treatments targeting CGRP help reduce photophobia in migraine.