Two forms of the CGRP protein and how they affect gut movement in men and women
Isoform- and Sex-Specific Functions of CGRP in Gastrointestinal Motility
This work looks at whether the two similar CGRP proteins control bowel movement differently in males and females and could explain constipation seen with some migraine medicines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11333797 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will map which nerve cells in the gut make the beta form of CGRP (CALCB) and compare them to the alpha form (CALCA). They will use genetic tools and live animal experiments to see how loss or change of each isoform alters gut motility and whether those effects differ by sex. The team will measure stool transit, neuronal signaling, and molecular expression to link specific neurons and peptides to bowel function. Findings will be compared to human genetic signals that link CALCB to stool frequency and diverticular disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who take anti-CGRP migraine therapies and experience constipation, or anyone with unexplained chronic bowel-motility problems linked to CGRP pathways, would be the most relevant candidates for follow-up or future trials.
Not a fit: Patients whose bowel problems are caused by structural disease, infections, or non-CGRP pathways are less likely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could explain why some people develop constipation from anti-CGRP migraine drugs and point to ways to prevent or treat that side effect.
How similar studies have performed: Clinical reports and genetic studies have linked CGRP signaling to stool frequency and anti-CGRP drugs can cause constipation, but identifying isoform- and sex-specific roles in gut motility is largely new.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rao, Meenakshi — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Rao, Meenakshi
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.