At present AM is believed to function through combinations of the calcitonin receptor like receptor (CALCRL) and receptor activity-modifying proteins (RAMP2) complexes, as well as CGRP receptors.
The presynaptic terminal bouton is filled with vesicles containing acetylcholine and a neuropeptide called Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP).
In migraine, stimulation of the trigeminal nerve causes neurogenic inflammation via release of neuropeptides including Substance P, nitric oxide, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, 5-HT, Neurokinin A and CGRP.