The aims of our study were to use whole genome sequencing in a cross-sectional cohort of patients to identify new variants in genes implicated in neuropathic pain, to determine the prevalence of known pathogenic variants and to understand the relationship between pathogenic variants and clinical presentation.
Patients with extreme neuropathic pain phenotypes (both sensory loss and gain) were recruited from secondary care clinics in the UK and underwent whole genome sequencing as part of the National Institute for Health and Care Research BioResource Rare Diseases project. A multidisciplinary team assessed the pathogenicity of rare variants in genes previously known to cause neuropathic pain disorders and exploratory analysis of research candidate genes was completed.
Editors note:
The researchers behind this study are looking to further understand the genetic basis of this condition through accessing data on genotypes related to neuropathic pain disorders held on the University of Cambridge’s 'Chromoscope’* data platform.
* ‘Chromoscope’ is a data platform used by researchers wishing to analyse rare genetic variants. For the NIHR Bioresource Rare Disease Project, DNA from consenting participants was collected and their genetic information was stored for future research use. In order for this data to be anonymously accessed for research purposes the NIHR BioResource created an application called ‘Chromoscope’ (previously known as ‘Gene Docs’). ‘Chromoscope’ allows approved researchers to access this genetic data. Before access is given researchers must submit an application to the NIHR BioResource requesting access. The BioResource reviews these applications and if approved, researchers are given access to the required anonymised data.
