4. FUTURE PERSPECTIVES.
Future research should aim to compare quantitatively the expression of
the discussed peptides and receptors, both in relation to sex and age.
Preliminary expression studies suggest that (i) CGRP and CT are the most
expressed of the studied peptides, (ii) that CGRP receptor and CTR are
the most frequently expressed receptor types and (iii) that
AM2, AMY1 and AMY3receptors occur in rat TG, but are mainly localized to the SGCs. The
demonstration of the specific ligands and receptor sites in TG neurons
highlights the importance of CGRP and the CGRP receptor as viable
contributors in primary headache disorders. Future investigations of the
expression of the CGRP-family of peptides near the node of Ranvier is
warranted. Understanding the location and distribution is important in
deciding on how to identify future targets for anti-migraine medications
and this will facilitate future drug development and ultimately enrich
the therapeutic options for the patients.