Investigating the role of microRNAs in cluster headache

Role of Specific microRNAs in Cluster Headache: Implications for Disease Phenotype and Neuropeptide Expression

Observational IRCCS National Neurological Institute "C. Mondino" Foundation · NCT06503328

This study is trying to see if certain tiny molecules in the blood are linked to cluster headaches and how they might affect pain and inflammation in people who have these headaches.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorIRCCS National Neurological Institute "C. Mondino" Foundation Academic / other
Locations1 site (Pavia)
Trial IDNCT06503328 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the involvement of specific microRNAs, particularly miR-34a-5p and miR-382-5p, in the pathophysiology of cluster headaches. By analyzing peripheral blood mononuclear cells from participants diagnosed with episodic cluster headache, the study seeks to understand how these microRNAs may influence inflammation and pain modulation. The research will include healthy controls and individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of episodic cluster headache, while excluding those with other headache disorders or relevant medical conditions. The findings could provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying cluster headaches.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 to 65 with a diagnosis of episodic cluster headache.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic headache disorders or other significant neurological conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new biomarkers for cluster headache and potential therapeutic targets.

How similar studies have performed: While the role of microRNAs in headache disorders is an emerging field, previous studies have shown promising results in related areas, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
\- Healthy Controls

Inclusion Criteria:

* age between \>18 and \<65 years

Exclusion Criteria:

* diagnosis of primary and/or secondary headache according to ICHD-III criteria (only diagnosis of sporadic tension type headache is allowed)
* diagnosis of neurological disorders
* diagnosis of medical conditions considered clinically relevant by the researcher
* pregnant and lactating women
* taking NSAIDs, triptans or opiates in the previous 24 hours
* Episodic Cluster Headache

Inclusion Criteria:

* diagnosis of Episodic Cluster Headache according to ICHD-III criteria (at least 1 year at screening)
* age between \>18 and \<65 years of both genders

Exclusion Criteria:

* concomitant diagnosis of other primary and/or secondary headache according to ICHD-III criteria (only diagnosis of sporadic tension headache is allowed)
* diagnosis of other neurological disorders
* diagnosis of medical conditions considered clinically relevant by the researcher
* diagnosis of chronic pain syndrome of any nature
* pregnant and lactating women
* use of substances of abuse
* Chronic Cluster Headache

Inclusion Criteria:

* diagnosis of Chronic Cluster Headache according to ICHD-III criteria (at least 1 year at screening)
* age between \>18 and \<65 years of both genders

Exclusion Criteria:

* concomitant diagnosis of other primary and/or secondary headache according to ICHD-III criteria (only diagnosis of sporadic tension headache is allowed)
* diagnosis of other neurological disorders
* diagnosis of medical conditions considered clinically relevant by the researcher
* diagnosis of chronic pain syndrome of any nature
* pregnant and lactating women
* use of substances of abuse

Where this trial is running

Pavia

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Cluster HeadacheMicroRNAmiR-34a-5pmiR-155miR-382-5pPeripheral blood mononuclear cellsCGRPPACAP
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.