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Health & Fitness

Pain thresholds and tolerances may be genetically determined

The American Academy of Neurology has released findings which shows that one's perception of pain may be genetically based.  A recent study by Dr. Tobore Onojjighofia showed that there are four genes which may be involved in the severity of pain perception.  The four genes are known as COMT, DRD2, DRD1 and OPRK1.  The study involved 2700 patients with pain who take prescription painkillers (opioids).  The patients were asked to rate their levels of pain, and these results were correlated with the presence of these four genes.  Those patients who primarily complained of low levels of pain more frequently had the DRD1 gene, and those with high levels more frequently had the DRD2 gene.  Those with moderate pain more frequently had the COMT or the OPRK1 gene.

The implications for this information is that perhaps pain can be treated in ways that take into account one's individual genetics, making treatment more tailored to individual needs.  It also may open up entire new avenues of treatment.

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