A groundbreaking discovery in gene research may hold the key to treating chronic pain, which affects over 600 million people worldwide. The condition, characterized by persistent and often debilitating pain, has long been a mystery, with even underlying causes such as arthritis or nerve damage remaining unclear.
The prevailing theory is that, after an injury, something goes awry with the body’s pain receptors and the brain’s alarm system continues to ring, triggering prolonged pain despite healing. Current treatments often offer little relief.
However, scientists are now exploring new avenues, including potential dietary influences on chronic pain. While more research is needed, this breakthrough could mark a significant shift in our understanding of chronic pain and pave the way for innovative treatments.
Source: https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2025/08/20/the-discovery-of-a-gene-for-chronic-pain-could-herald-new-treatments