Alcohol-Induced Headache with Neuroinflammation: Recent Progress

Abstract

Ethanol and other congeners in alcoholic beverages and foods are known triggers of alcohol-induced headaches (AIHs). Recent studies implicate AIHs as an important underlying factor for neuroinflammation. Studies show the relationship between alcoholic beverages, AIH agents, neuroinflammation, and the pathway they elicit. However, studies elucidating specific AIH agents’ pathways are scarce. Works reviewing their pathways can give invaluable insights into specific substances’ patterns and how they can be controlled. Hence, we reviewed the current understanding of how AIH agents in alcoholic beverages affect neuroinflammation and their specific roles. Ethanol upregulates transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) expression levels; both receptors trigger a neuroinflammation response that promotes AIH manifestation—the most common cause of AIHs. Other congeners such as histamine, 5-HT, and condensed tannins also upregulate TRPV1 and TLR4, neuroinflammatory conditions, and AIHs. Data elucidating AIH agents, associating pathways, and fermentation parameters can help reduce or eliminate AIH inducers and create healthier beverages.