Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) is a 37–amino-acid neuropeptide widely distributed in the central and peripheral nervous systems.
It is one of the most potent vasodilators in the human body and plays a major role in pain transmission and migraine pathophysiology.
CGRP was discovered in 1982 when researchers showed that the calcitonin gene could produce two different peptides through alternative RNA splicing.
Key scientists involved:
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Susan G. Amara
-
Michael G. Rosenfeld
-
Ronald M. Evans
Their work demonstrated that the calcitonin gene in thyroid C-cells produces calcitonin, while neurons produce CGRP from the same gene.
Susan G. Amara is a prominent neuroscientist known for important work on neurotransmitter transporters and neuropeptides, including research related to Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) and its role in the nervous system.
CGRP plays a crucial role in Migraine.
During a migraine attack:
- CGRP is released from trigeminal nerve endings
- Causes vasodilation and inflammation of meningeal vessels
- Leads
to headache pain




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