Link between DNA marks and chronic muscle pain – exciting discovery for people with fibromyalgia

Experts have found a link between changes in marks on the outside of DNA and chronic widespread muscle pain, a discovery that could lead to a blood test to diagnose fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that causes widespread pain in muscles and bones, and fatigue. It is estimated to affect up to one in 25 people but its causes are poorly understood, there are limited treatments and no diagnostic tests.

The new study

Experts used twins to investigate if the patterns of marks on DNA (DNA methylation) can affect how active the gene is in producing particular proteins, and report their findings in PLOS ONE. They wanted to see if there is a difference in people with and without chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain.

Three genes were identified that had different amounts of DNA methylation in people with and without chronic widespread pain.

It appears that people may have different patterns of methylation on their DNA, and that this could change the activity of some genes and even cause the condition.

The implications

Scientists may be able to develop new therapies and tests for fibromyalgia by understanding the behaviour of the genes.

“Fibromyalgia is influenced by genetic factors but there are many complicated steps between gene and disease,” explains lead researcher Dr Frances Williams. “Identifying measurable epigenetic links is a major step forward. In addition, the results will inform future research in fibromyalgia as well as other chronic pain syndromes, such as irritable bowel syndrome.”

Click here to read the original research.

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