A high-resolution genomic roadmap for chronic pain converges on glutamatergic neurons and C-fibers

Chronic pain etiology involves a shared genetic profile, but its cellular context is poorly defined. In a study published in this issue of the JCI, Toikumo et al. integrated a chronic pain GWAS meta-analysis (n >1.2 million) with single-cell omics data from human brain and dorsal root ganglia. Genetic risk was predominantly enriched in central glutamatergic neurons, particularly those in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and amygdala. In the periphery, the C-fiber nociceptor subtype hPEP.TRPV1/A1.2 was highlighted. Implicated genes converged on involvement in synaptic function and neuron projection development. This work identifies specific central and peripheral cell types that define the genetic architecture of chronic pain, providing a foundation for targeted translational research.