Blood levels of PACAP in migraine: A systematic review.

The research aimed to understand the role of PACAP in migraines. PACAP is a substance in the blood linked to migraine attacks. The study reviewed existing research to see if PACAP levels differ in migraine patients. Researchers looked at studies involving both adults and children. They found eleven studies that met their criteria. Some studies showed higher PACAP levels in migraine patients. Others found no difference or even lower levels compared to healthy individuals. Additionally, five studies compared PACAP levels during migraine attacks and between attacks. The results were mixed and did not provide a clear answer. Overall, the research highlights the complexity of PACAP's role in migraines. More studies are needed to understand these findings better and how they relate to migraine treatments. This research could help improve future migraine therapies by targeting specific biological mechanisms. Clinical relevance: This research indicates that PACAP levels in migraine patients vary, suggesting future studies could explore its role in developing targeted migraine therapies.