This kit recognises Human CGRP1 in samples. No significant cross-reactivity or interference between Human CGRP1 and analogues was observed.

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a 37-amino acid neuropeptide that functions as a vasodilator, has an important role in pain pathways, and has become a target for migraine treatment. The CGRP peptide is characterised by an N-terminal disulfide bond, an alpha-helical structure than plays a role in binding affinity, and an amine C-terminal (1,2). CGRP exists in alpha- and beta-isoforms encoded by genes CALCA (CALC I) and CALCB (CALC II), respectively (1,2). alphaCGRP and betaCGRP only differ by three amino acids, have greater than 90% homology, and each peptide has a theoretical molecular weight of ~3.8 kDa (1,2). alphaCGRP is the predominant peptide form and is expressed in regions of the central and peripheral nervous system, including sensory fibers and the trigeminal ganglia (1,2). Other members of the CGRP gene family includes adrenomedullin, and adrenomedullin 2 (intermedin), amylin, and calcitonin (1,2). When CGRP is released from nerve fibers and blood vessels, it binds a CGRP receptor complex (1-3). The receptor consists of G-protein coupled receptor calcitonin-like receptor (CLR) that is associated with an accessory protein receptor activity-modifying protein (RAMP) (2,3).

Signaling of CGRP and its receptor are involved in vasodilation, neurogenic inflammation, and peripheral sensitization of nociceptors, all of which relate to migraine pathophysiology. Studies have found that CGRP is both released during migraines and can also induce migraines. Under normal conditions CGRP levels are typical and neurotransmission is relative; however, migraine triggers including light and sound can increase CGRP levels, enhance neurotransmission, and alter the pain and sensory aversions associated with migraines. Given its role, CGRP and its receptor have been the target of many migraine therapeutics including small molecule agonists called gepants and monoclonal antibodies. Ubrogepant and Rimegepant, two small molecule CGRP receptor agonists, have been FDA approved while another agonist, Atogepant, is ongoing in clinical trials. Additionally, four monoclonal antibodies against either CGRP or its receptor that are used to block signaling have been FDA approved: Eptinezumab, Fremanezumab, Galcanezumab, and Erenumab.