This Woman Feels No Pain Thanks to Genetic Mutation

Jo Cameron has gone her entire life without feeling any significant pain.

Scientists have discovered a genetic mutation is behind the 71-year-old’s remarkable tolerance for pain, The Guardian reported.

Cameron has experienced a variety of physical ailments, from cuts and burns to broken bones and surgeries, without registering any significant pain. According to The Guardian, Cameron claimed she “had not had a twinge,” after an x-ray revealed her hip had deteriorated the point of necessary replacement.

The article also reported that Cameron’s tolerance isn’t limited to the physical. According to the report, the former teacher is immune to panic, and scored a zero in stress and depression tests.

A case report published Thursday in the British Journal of Anaesthesia found two notable genetic mutations at the root of Cameron’s unique condition. “Together, they suppress pain and anxiety, while boosting happiness and, apparently, forgetfulness and wound healing,” The Guardian reported.

According to the report, the first mutation is relatively common. The mutation hampers the activity of a gene called FAAH, which makes an enzyme responsible for breaking down a chemical central to pain sensation.

The second mutation, “a missing chunk of DNA,” was the more significant find for scientists. According to the report, this “missing chunk” deleted the front of a previously unknown gene. Named FAAH-OUT by the scientists who discovered it, the gene is believed to work “like a volume control on the FAAH gene.” Essentially, Cameron’s FAAH gene is on mute, leaving her extremely resistant to pain.

James Cox, one of the researches on the study, reported that Cameron’s case is not the most severe, claiming that in more extreme cases, the mutation could leave patients feeling no pain at all.

Scientists expressed hope that the discovery of Cameron’s mutation will help aid future developments in pain relief treatments.

“There’s an awful lot we can learn from her. Once we understand how the new gene works, we can think about gene therapies that mimic the effects we see in her. There are millions of people living in pain and we definitely need new analgesics. Patients like this can give us real insights into the pain system,” said Cox.