Investigating the Role of Oxidant-Antioxidant Balance in the Etiology of Migraine.

Aim: Migraine, a prevalent neurovascular disorder, is marked by repetitive headache episodes. Its complex etiology encompasses biochemical, genetic, and environmental influences, but its exact pathophysiology remains elusive. Recent studies have hinted at a link between migraine and oxidative stress. Hence, this study sought to delve into the correlation between migraine, oxidative stress markers, and lipid profiles. Material and Method: This case-control study involved 60 adult migraine patients from Dicle University's Neurology Department in Diyarbakır, Türkiye, observed between 2009 and 2010. The control group was age- and gender-matched healthy individuals. Parameters like malondialdehyde (MDA), paraoxonase-1 (PON-1), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and lipid constituents such as total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides (TG) were measured in both groups. Results: Migraine sufferers, particularly those with aura, had significantly elevated MDA levels compared to controls (p<0.05). Conversely, TAC and PON-1 levels were notably lower in the migraine population, suggesting an imbalance in their oxidant/antioxidant systems (p<0.05). Lipid analysis showed heightened TC, LDL-C, and TG in migraine patients, while HDL-C was diminished, with marked differences in subgroups (p<0.05). Conclusion: The surge in MDA and the decline in TAC and PON-1 levels insinuate that oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in migraine's pathophysiology. The lipid profile alterations in migraineurs highlight potential cardiovascular concerns. Comprehensive cohort studies are essential to confirm these findings and understand the intricate ties between migraine, oxidative stress, and metabolic indicators. This research underscores oxidative balance's potential significance in migraine pathogenesis, emphasizing the need to consider oxidative stress in migraine management and prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]