The Possible Role of Apelin and Sirtuin 1 in Migraine Pathogenesis

Migraine is recognized as a neurovascular and neuroinflammatory condition. The demonstration of temporary demyelinating lesions in brain parenchyma caused different thoughts about the pathogenesis of migraine other than the pain process. In vitro studies –emphasizing the occurrence of this situation through neuroinflammation – have led us to hypothesize that as an adipocytokine member, apelin, and an epigenetic regulator, sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) may have a possible role in the pathogenesis of migraine. We measured these molecules’ serum levels with ELISA. The serum levels were not significantly changed in subgroups, so a direct correlation in the pathogenesis of migraine could not be shown, but levels in the migraine group had drawn our attention. SIRT1 and apelin may increase migraine attacks to compensate for the probable neurodegeneration. This initial study speculated that SIRT1 and apelin may have a role in migraine pathogenesis that needs to be clarified.

Keywords: Migraine; Neurodegenerative diseases; Neuroimmunology; Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1)