Copper and iron as unique trace elements linked to fibromyalgia risk

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Genetics
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Fibromyalgia (FM) is a common chronic pain disorder with unclear causes.
• Abnormal trace element metabolism is implicated in FM pathogenesis.
• Understanding these relationships is crucial for developing effective treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate potential causal links between 15 trace elements and fibromyalgia risk.
• To identify specific trace elements influencing FM development.
• To explore the independent roles of copper (Cu) and iron (Fe) in FM.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Mendelian randomization (MR) with genetic instrumental variables from genome-wide association studies (GWAS).
• Employed various MR analysis methods including inverse-variance weighting (IVW).
• Conducted multivariable analysis to control for potential confounders like selenium.

Main Results:

• A significant positive association was found between copper (Cu) and increased FM risk (OR=1.095, P=0.018).
• A significant negative association was observed between iron (Fe) and decreased FM risk (OR=0.440, P=0.011).
• These associations for Cu and Fe remained independent of selenium.

Conclusions:

• Copper and iron play distinct roles in fibromyalgia pathophysiology.
• Trace element status may be important for FM prevention and management.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the biological mechanisms involved.