Genetic study identifies risk factors for fibromyalgia

3 min read

Researchers analysed DNA from more than 2.5 million adults across the UK, US, Finland, Denmark, Iceland and Estonia, including about 55,000 people diagnosed with fibromyalgia, and identified DNA sequence variants in 26 regions of the genome that affect risk. The study found a strong link with the HTT gene and a receptor that regulates HTT, noted overlap with lower back pain and irritable bowel syndrome, and supports a biological basis for the syndrome. Immediate consequences include new research directions, possible repurposing of Huntington's disease drug research, and clearer targets for future diagnostics and therapies.

DNA variants in 26 genome regions affect fibromyalgia risk.