title: Epigenetics and the transition from acute to chronic pain.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The objective of this study was to review the epigenetic modifications involved in the transition from acute to chronic pain and to identify potential targets for the development of novel, individualized pain therapeutics.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  Epigenetics is the study of heritable modifications in gene expression and phenotype that do not require a change in genetic sequence to manifest their effects. Environmental toxins, medications, diet, and psychological stresses can alter epigenetic processes such as DNA methylation, histone acetylation, and RNA interference. As epigenetic modifications potentially play an important role in inflammatory cytokine metabolism, steroid responsiveness, and opioid sensitivity, they are likely key factors in the development of chronic pain. Although our knowledge of the human genetic code and disease-associated polymorphisms has grown significantly in the past decade, we have not yet been able to elucidate the mechanisms that lead to the development of persistent pain after nerve injury or surgery.
  
  
  METHODS
  This is a focused literature review of epigenetic science and its relationship to chronic pain.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Significant laboratory and clinical data support the notion that epigenetic modifications are affected by the environment and lead to differential gene expression. Similar to mechanisms involved in the development of cancer, neurodegenerative disease, and inflammatory disorders, the literature endorses an important potential role for epigenetics in chronic pain.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Epigenetic analysis may identify mechanisms critical to the development of chronic pain after injury, and may provide new pathways and target mechanisms for future drug development and individualized medicine.
authors.affiliation: Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA. thomas.buchheit@duke.edu
authors.forename: Thomas
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Buchheit
authors.forename: Thomas
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Van de Ven
authors.forename: Andrew
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Shaw
mesh_terms: D059787:Acute Pain / Q000235:genetics*; D059350:Chronic Pain / Q000235:genetics*; D044127:Epigenesis, Genetic / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans