Understanding how brain circuits contribute to migraine pain

Brain Circuits of Migraine Pain

NIH-funded research University of Arizona · NIH-10881751

This study is looking at how certain brain pathways are involved in migraine pain to understand why some new medications work for some people but not for others, with the hope of finding better treatments for everyone who suffers from migraines.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Arizona NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tucson, United States)
Project IDNIH-10881751 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex brain circuits involved in migraine pain, focusing on the trigeminal pain pathways and related brain structures. It aims to explore how new medications targeting CGRP mechanisms work and why some patients do not respond to these treatments. By utilizing advanced techniques like neuroimaging and optogenetics, the study seeks to identify the specific brain regions activated during migraine attacks and their roles in pain perception. This could lead to a better understanding of migraine mechanisms and the development of more effective treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who experience chronic migraines and have not found relief with existing CGRP-targeting medications.

Not a fit: Patients who do not suffer from migraines or have other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for migraine sufferers, particularly for those who do not respond to current therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding migraine mechanisms, but this study aims to explore novel aspects of brain circuitry that have not been extensively studied.

Where this research is happening

Tucson, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.