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Focus on Fibromyalgia: Abnormal MicroRNA

In the first study of its kind, researchers have found something that sets people with fibromyalgia apart from others.  The study leads its authors to believe that  circulating micro RNAs are abnormal in those with fibromyalgia..





What is RNA?
RNA is an abbreviation for ribonucleic acid, a substance that is present in all living cells in the body. It serves as a messenger--carrying signals from DNA (genetic material) to the protein making portions of a living cell.  micro RNA is a fragment of RNA that serves to target specific portions of the RNA molecule, impairing their function.  This impairment can cause deficiencies or abnormalities in protein production

micro RNA and Fibromyalgia

 The study mentioned about looked at 374 micro RNAs in women with fibromyalgia and healthy subjects.  Eight microRNAs were different in the fibromyalgia group.  It is believed that this abnormality may be responsible for some aspects of this condition, specifically:


  • Pain
  • Pain threshold
  • Sleep quality
  • Sleep quantity
  • Other sleep-related symptoms

This finding may open up a whole new avenue of research in the area of fibromyalgia.  For those who are afflicted, it's good to know that help is on the way!


Source: About.com; Wikimedia
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