The American Heart Association and the American Headache Society have joined forces to support new research into the connection between migraine, brain health and cardiovascular disease.
The groups announced four research awards for 2026. One joint project will examine whether repeated migraine attacks can affect brain immune cells and potentially increase stroke risk.
Quick Fact
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| What Happened | New research projects will examine links between migraine, brain health, heart health, and stroke risk. |
| Organizations | American Heart Association and American Headache Society |
| Announcement Date | September 22, 2026 |
| Main Award | $200,000 for a two year research project |
| Main Researcher | Juliana Navia Pelaez, Ph.D. |
| Institution | Saint Louis University School of Medicine |
| Main Research Focus | Migraine related immune cells and possible links to stroke risk |
| Other Research Areas | Migraine with aura, blood vessels, IIH, brain waste clearance, obesity, and inflammation |
| Current Status | The research projects are being funded and will investigate these potential connections. |
| Why It Matters | The studies could help researchers better understand how migraine and vascular health may interact. |
Migraine and Heart Health Research
The American Heart Association and American Headache Society are funding research into how migraine and other headache disorders may affect cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health.
The collaboration marks the first time the two organizations have jointly funded an Innovative Project Award.
The award provides $200,000 for a two year research project. Researchers from several fields could apply. These included laboratory science, clinical research and population health studies.
The projects could also focus on people at any stage of life, from childhood through older adulthood.
Other Research Projects
New MRI Research for IIH
Andrea M. Harriott, M.D., Ph.D., from Massachusetts General Hospital will study cortical spreading depolarizations.
These brain activity changes occur during migraine with aura. The project will examine whether repeated exposure can cause lasting changes in blood vessels.
Researchers will study blood vessel proteins, new blood vessel growth and vascular function.Matthew T. Bender, M.D., from the University of Rochester will study idiopathic intracranial hypertension, or IIH.
Migraine With Aura and Blood Vessel Health
IIH involves increased pressure around the brain and can cause headaches and other symptoms. The research will explore the relationship between blood flow and the brain’s waste removal system.
The team plans to develop a new MRI approach that does not require contrast dye or invasive procedures.
Researchers will scan IIH patients before and after vein stenting. They will then examine changes in blood flow and waste clearance.
Obesity and Migraine Research
Neil Dani, Ph.D., from Vanderbilt University will study migraine and obesity models.
The research focuses on the choroid plexus, a structure in the brain that produces cerebrospinal fluid. Scientists want to understand whether inflammation linked to obesity can influence migraine related pain pathways.
The project will examine immune signals and changes in cells. It will also test whether existing medicines, including acetazolamide, can affect these processes.
What Happens Next With Migraine Research
The researchers will conduct their projects over the coming two years.
Any new treatments or prevention strategies would require further research and clinical testing.
The American Heart Association and American Headache Society are supporting new research into the relationship between migraine, brain function and cardiovascular health.
The research could help scientists better understand why headache disorders and vascular health sometimes overlap.
