According to a new study in the journal Science, researchers have found a gene that regulates chronic pain. This gene is located in pain-sensitive nerves, and though scientists have been aware of it for some time until recently they were unsure of its purpose. When tested in mice, removing the gene stopped all neuropathic pain without affecting acute pain, a key element in attempting to treat chronic pain without affecting sensation. This exciting discovery could lead to new drugs for neuropathic pain.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/09/10/chronic-pain-gene-hcn2_n_956092.html