Amylin is a 37 amino acid peptide hormone that is closely related to calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). Amylin and CGRP share a receptor and are reported to have several similar biological actions. Given the important role of CGRP in migraine and intense efforts to develop drugs against this target, it is important to consider potential areas of overlap between the amylin and CGRP systems. This short review provides a brief introduction to amylin biology, the use of an amylin analog to treat diabetes, and consideration of whether amylin could have any role in headache disorders. Finally, this review informs readers about the AMY1 (amylin subtype 1) receptor, which is a dual receptor for amylin and CGRP and potentially plays a role in the bioactivity of both of these peptides.
Keywords: CGRP; amylin; migraine; receptor activity-modifying protein.
© 2017 American Headache Society.