Research summary
Millions of Canadians live with moderate to severe chronic pain. To develop better treatments for these conditions, we need a better understanding of the genetic basis of pain.
Dr. Luda Diatchenko, Canada Research Chair in Human Pain Genetics, is studying the pathophysiology of chronic pain states and trying to identify new treatments by learning about the genetics of pain. She and her research team are conducting genome-wide analyses of groups of people in different pain states and with different pain-related phenotypes. By revealing more about how individuals develop pain and respond to therapies based on their genetics, their research may identify potential new drug targets and treatments.