A multidisciplinary approach to the identification of BIOmarkers of MIGraine: a proof of concept study based on the stratification of responders CGRP monoclonal Antibodies
Abstract
Migraine is a common neurological disorder and a major source of disability. Though curable in principle,
migraine generally improves poorly with available treatments, due to their limited efficacy and scarce
tolerability. In 2018, monoclonal antibodies (mABs) against calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor
have been approved. These mABs are the first specific preventive treatment for migraine ever developed.
They are highly effective in a subgroup of patients, well tolerated, but costly. The main objective of this
project is the identification of predictive biomarkers of response to CGRP-targeted mAbs in patients with
migraine. To this end, we will use a hypothesis-driven, multidisciplinary approach that combines fundamental
research in a validated animal model of migraine with a variegated and integrated omics approach on a
carefully characterized population of migraine sufferers. Three partners with an established long-standing
and complementary expertise in animal modeling and epigenetics, neuroimaging and biochemical profiling in
humans will collaborate to achieve the Projects objective. We expect important spin-offs to the improved
management of migraine, but also to the understanding of CGRP-based mechanisms underlying migraine
pathophysiology. Healthcare providers and the pharmaceutical industry will be engaged once the
biomarker(s) have been identified to optimize access to care, reduce disability and socio-economic impact of
migraine.
Keywords
Imaging techniques, Pharmacology, Behavioural methodologies, (epi)genetic approaches, Clinical trial, omics approaches, Animal studies, Migraine, calcitonin gene-related peptide, monoclonal antibodies
Call topic
Biomarkers
Proposed runtime
2020 - 2022
Project team
Cristina Tassorelli (Coordinator)
Italy (MOH)
Patricia Pozo Rosich
Spain (ISCIII)
Arne May
Germany (BMBF)