ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:
Studies suggest that shared molecular factors can simultaneously affect different chronic pain syndromes. Understanding the epigenetic mechanisms of various diseases that are associated with chronic pain is essential to comprehend its appearance and progression. The objective of this study is to evaluate the association between DNA methylation of the NR3C1 gene with the presence and intensity of chronic pain, as well as predictive factors also considering socioeconomic, health and lifestyle factors correlated with this association, in adult individuals using the Brazilian Unified Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde - SUS) in a municipality in Southeast Brazil.
METHODS:
This is a cross-sectional study, whose data collection was carried out through interviews to investigate socioeconomic status, lifestyle and health conditions, in addition to anthropometric assessments and blood samples. Data were analyzed by quantitative DNA methylation assays and statistical analysis.
CONCLUSION:
The findings suggest epigenetic involvement in NR3C1 gene methylation in association with chronic pain and suggest the need to seek new evidence in relation to the mechanisms that explain chronic pain, especially from an epigenetic point of view, as they may provide subsidies for the prevention and control of chronic pain targeting individuals with the profile found in this study.
Keywords:
Chronic pain; DNA methylation; Life style; Socioeconomic factors
HIGHLIGHTS
Suggests epigenetic involvement in association with chronic pain.
Identifes the profile of individuals affected by chronic pain.
Evidence subsidies for the prevention and control of chronic pain.
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