Here at the London Pain Clinic, our world-class Pain Doctors who are renowned across Europe for being abreast of the latest leading-edge research on pain conditions and innovative treatments, are extremely optimistic about new state-of-the-art personalised targeted therapies.
Bringing an End to One-Size-Fits Treatment For Chromic Pain
A recent scientific study undertaken by the University of Oxford, and published in the medical journal, Nature, has shown the potential of a new non-opioid (non-addictive) treatment for long-term pain. This involves modulating the way in which pain signals are relayed within the nervous system, and comprises: targeting a gene named SLC45A4, along with its encoded protein (which is a neuronal polyamine transporter).
So What is a Neuronal Polyamine Transporter?
As our Pain Specialists regularly explain: a neuronal polyamine transporter refers to a protein which moves organic compounds (polyamines) in and out of nerve cells (neurons), thus providing a vital role in various fields including as pain perception.
A Much Needed Breakthrough For Chronic Pain Sufferers
“A major scientific breakthrough has uncovered a new genetic link to chronic pain – offering hope for millions who suffer daily. For the first time, researchers have identified a new gene that plays a key role in how the body processes and feels pain” [1]
Professor Simon Newstead, Oxford University’s Chair of Molecular Biophysics, Department of Biochemistry, noted: “Significant discoveries occur when we grasp how the complex tissues and organs in our bodies function and communicate. Membrane transporters play a fundamental role in this communication. Our findings now reveal a new link between membrane transport and chronic pain, paving the way for a deeper understanding of how metabolism and pain are connected in the human body”[1].
Understanding the Lingo
A cell membrane refers to a dynamic structure which:
- Separates the cell from its external environment
- Mediates cell communication, and
- Regulates the entry and exit of various substances (which is known as membrane transport)
Did You Know?
As the London Pain Clinic is all too aware, long-term pain is “one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, yet its underlying biological causes have remained a mystery — until now” [1].
Putting a Spotlight on the Researc
In this aforementioned study, the researchers from several institutes: “combined genetic data with detailed imaging and functional studies to identify the new gene, SLC45A4, that controls pain sensitivity. This gene produces a transporter that moves natural chemicals called polyamines across nerve cells. These chemicals, when overly abundant, disrupt how nerve cells function — sending more pain signals to the brain than normal” [1]. So to that end, this discovery is extremely important in regards to personalised treatment. – Something that our Pain Doctors put at the forefront of all we do. Indeed, once our patients have had their initial in-person or online consultation, and any necessary examination, tests and scans have been conducted, they will then be given an accurate diagnosis. After this, their Pain Consultant will draw up a Holistic Personalised Treatment Plan, that they can get started on right away.
So What is a Holistic Personalised Treatment Plan?
In an nutshell, this is a protocol which often involves a combination of different types of treatment which work synergistically in order to generate an optimum effect. – This empowers the patient to get their life back on track as soon as possible. Moreover, the patient’s progress will be monitored by their Pain Doctor (this frequently involves inline appointments), and any questions and concerns will be addressed.
The type of treatment may include:
- Conventional treatment (including research-backed pharmaceuticals and topicals)
- State-of-the art therapies
- Injectables (including facet joint, pain blocker, and Botox injections)
- Lifestyle and nutritional and supplement advice
Reference
[1]. University of Oxford Department of Biochemistry (2025). “Breakthrough Discovery Reveals New Gene Linked to Chronic Pain.”
