Symptomatic Migraine Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocol on Functional Connectivity and Regional Homogeneity Alterations

Abstract

Goal: A large body of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) research has used functional connectivity (FC) and regional
homogeneity (ReHo) measures to investigate how migraineurs’ brains work. Nevertheless, the results of these investigations
are sometimes contradictory. We will conduct a comprehensive literature review and meta-analysis to find commonalities in the
findings of functional alterations in the brains of migraine sufferers and to outline possible avenues for further research. The
methodology involves two researchers working separately to search all articles published between the beginning of the databases
(i.e., Medline, Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Web of Science) up to June 1, 2021. If there is a dispute, it may be addressed and
resolution reached by consulting with a third investigator. Afterwards, an ALE random-effects model will be used to conduct
a coordinate-based meta-analysis. This meta-analysis will provide light on the regions of the brain that are changed in migraine
sufferers, namely in the areas of cerebral FC and ReHo. Based on the existing literature, this study will uncover functional abnormalities in the brains of migraine sufferers, drawing conclusions and outlining possible directions for future research.