Why does Highland woman feel no pain?
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Scientists say they have uncovered how a rare genetic mutation allows a woman from the Loch Ness area to feel no pain.
Experts from University College London (UCL) have found how mutations in what is known as the FAAH-OUT gene work enable Jo Cameron to not experience pain.
The same biological mechanisms are also believed to allow wounds to heal more rapidly.
The researchers said the findings, published in the journal Brain, pave the way for new drugs research in relation to pain management and wound healing.
Professor James Cox, of UCL Medicine, a senior author of the study, said: “By understanding precisely what is happening at a molecular level, we can start to understand the biology involved and that opens up possibilities for drug discovery that could one day have far-reaching positive impacts for patients.”
The Courier reported on former teacher Ms Cameron (75), from Whitebridge, in 2019 when UCL scientists announced that mutations in the previously unknown FAAH-OUT gene made her feel no pain, stress or fear.
She had only discovered the condition when she was 65 and sought treatment for an issue with her hip.
Although her condition involved severe joint degeneration she had experienced no pain.
Undergoing surgery on her hand at Raigmore Hospital later and she also reported no pain there though the treatment is normally very painful.
And she even reported that she had not felt any pain during childbirth.
On the downside she said she suffers memory lapses and also ended up covered in burns from not feeling pain when cooking on her Aga – only the smell of burning alterting her to the situation.
Building on that work, the researchers have found that FAAH-OUT mutation “turns down” the expression of the FAAH gene, which is associated with pain, mood and memory.
The researchers also found alterations in two other genes, BDNF and ACKR3, which they believe may contribute to Ms Cameron’s low anxiety, fear and painlessness, the researchers said.
Dr Andrei Okorokov, also of UCL Medicine, another senior author of the latest study, said: “The FAAH-OUT gene is just one small corner of a vast continent, which this study has begun to map.
“As well as the molecular basis for painlessness, these explorations have identified molecular pathways affecting wound healing and mood, all influenced by the FAAH-OUT mutation.
“As scientists it is our duty to explore and I think these findings will have important implications for areas of research such as wound healing, depression and more.”
