Stromal Cell-Derived Factor-1 Alpha Is Decreased in Women With Migraine With Aura.

Background: Endothelial dysfunction may contribute to the pathophysiology of migraine with aura. Stromal cell-derived factor-1 alpha (SDF-1α) is involved in the maintenance of endothelial integrity via mobilization of vascular stem cells.

Objectives: We sought to determine whether SDF-1α levels are decreased in women with MA.

Methods: In this post hoc analysis of a case-cohort study, levels of SDF-1α were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Endothelial function was assessed using peripheral arterial tonometry. Arterial stiffness was assessed by fingertip tonometry derived and heart-rate-adjusted augmentation index (AI).

Results: Twenty-eight women with MA and 27 age-matched healthy women were included in this study. Levels of SDF-1α were significantly lower in women with MA compared to age- and risk factor-matched healthy women (1763 ± 281 vs 2013 ± 263 pg/mL, P = 0.006). SDF-1α levels were positively correlated with AI in healthy women (r = 0.49, P = 0.009), but not in women with MA (r = 0.05, P = 0.78). SDF-1α levels were negatively correlated with CD144-positive endothelial microparticles (EMP; r = -0.31, P = .02), and activated CD62E-positive EMP (r = -0.35, P = .01).

Conclusion: Levels of SDF-1α are decreased in women with MA and are associated with EMPs as a surrogate marker of endothelial dysfunction. This might contribute to the pathophysiology and vascular risk in MA, but evidence from larger prospective studies is warranted.