Backache? May be related to genes

If you suffer from back pain, the cause may be in your DNA.

Millions of people around the world are suffering from back pain. Recently, researchers have discovered three gene mutations related to back pain. Mutations in the three genes SOX5, CCDC26/GSDMC, and DCC are thought to affect spinal development. Researchers from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs conducted a genome-wide meta-analysis of more than 150,000 individuals of European descent to come to this conclusion.

These three mutations are even associated with pain-causing diseases such as sciatica and arthritis, among which SOX5 has the most obvious correlation. In the past, studies have found that SOX5 mutations are associated with osteoarthritis and bone defects in mouse knees, hip joints, paws and cartilage. The research team led by Dr. Pradeep Suri analyzed the effects of these three gene mutations in 280,000 people, of whom 50,000 suffer from back pain, further confirming the association between SOX5 and back discomfort. The research has recently been published on PLOS Genetics.

In addition, CCDC26/GSDMC is also believed to play a role in lumbar disc herniation and sciatica. Sciatica originates in the lower back and passes through the buttocks to the sciatic nerve in the legs.

In another study, researchers found that DCC is more common in depression than back pain. Therefore, they believe that there is a correlation between mental health diseases and spinal discomfort. It is known that DCC also plays a role in animal spinal pain.

Dr. Suri said: "The results of this genome-wide association study indicate that there may be multiple ways to affect the risk of chronic back pain. Chronic back pain is related to mood changes. The central nervous system is affected by the conversion of acute back pain to chronic back pain. The role is well-recognized. However, the two most important genetic variations we found may be the cause of affecting peripheral structures, such as the spine." Although the study sample is large, the researchers believe that it should be carried out on a larger scale. To determine how these genes are involved in back pain.

At least four-fifths of people will suffer from lower back pain in their lifetime, and one-fifth of them will suffer from chronic back discomfort that lasts for more than a year. According to research conducted by the Caesars Medical Group's Washington Institute of Health earlier this year, chiropractic therapy is indeed helpful in relieving back pain.

The above content is reproduced from: Ministry of Science and Technology.

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