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Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, may contribute to chronic pain disorders.
- Chronic pain affects both patients and healthcare systems significantly.
- DNA methylation and long non-coding RNAs are important regulators of gene expression linked to pain.
- Alterations in DNA methylation and lncRNA expression may influence inflammation and nociceptive signaling pathways.
- Changes in these epigenetic markers are associated with chronic primary pain conditions like fibromyalgia and chronic low back pain, as well as chronic secondary pain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
- DNA methylation-based epigenetic clocks may serve as potential biomarkers for disease risk and prognosis in chronic pain.
- Lifestyle and environmental factors could shape epigenetic regulation, suggesting avenues for personalized pain management strategies.
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