Increased Plasma Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Levels in Migraineurs

Authors: Imamura, Keiko; Takeshima, Takao; Fusayasu, Emi; Nakashima, Kenji

Source: Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, Volume 48, Number 1, January 2008 , pp. 135-139(5)

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Abstract:

(Headache 2007;48:135-139) Background and Objective.—

Cortical spreading depression and neurogenic inflammation have been hypothesized to be key steps in the development of migraine headache. Recent studies have highlighted matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in cortical spreading depression, neurogenic inflammation, and cerebral ischemia. To seek their possible association, we investigated plasma MMP-9 levels in migraineurs during headache-free periods. Methods.—

Plasma MMP-9 levels in 84 migraine subjects and 61 controls were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In addition, 23 patients with tension type headache were included in the study as comparative subjects. Results.—

The MMP-9 levels in migraineurs (42.5 ± 4.6 ng/mL, mean ± SE) were significantly higher than those in controls (25.4 ± 2.7 ng/mL, P < .005). Those levels in tension type headache subjects (24.6 ± 4.8 ng/mL) did not differ from those in controls. There was no significant difference between subjects having migraine with aura and those without aura. The MMP-9 levels did not correlate with age, duration of illness, frequency of migraine attack, duration of headache attack, or medication for headache. Mean plasma MMP-9 levels were the highest in subjects from whom blood samples were taken 2-4 days after their latest attack. Conclusions.—

The degradation of extracellular matrix showing the increase of MMP-9 in migrainurs may be associated with an abnormality in their blood vessel permeability. MPP-9 plays some role in migraine pathophysiology. Further studies of MMPs are necessary to elucidate their role.

Keywords: cortical spreading depression; gelatinase; ischemia; neurogenic inflammation; migraine

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1526-4610.2007.00958.x

Publication date: 2008-01-01

Increased Plasma Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Levels in Migraineurs

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