Researchers have identified a major gene affecting chronic pain sensitivity, according to a study reported in News-Medical.
The research, published online in Nature Medicine, suggests a new approach to individualizing the treatment of chronic pain. Scientists identified a gene that encodes the P2X7 pain receptor, discovering that a single amino acid change in P2X7 controls sensitivity to nerve damage and inflammation.
"The amino-acid change is known to affect only one function of P2X7 receptors — the forming of pores that permit large molecules to pass through — while leaving intact the other function, of allowing much tinier ions to flow through," the report said. Researchers then used a peptide that targets pore formation and found that pain behaviors were drastically reduced.
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The research, published online in Nature Medicine, suggests a new approach to individualizing the treatment of chronic pain. Scientists identified a gene that encodes the P2X7 pain receptor, discovering that a single amino acid change in P2X7 controls sensitivity to nerve damage and inflammation.
"The amino-acid change is known to affect only one function of P2X7 receptors — the forming of pores that permit large molecules to pass through — while leaving intact the other function, of allowing much tinier ions to flow through," the report said. Researchers then used a peptide that targets pore formation and found that pain behaviors were drastically reduced.
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