Researchers find genetic link between physical pain and social rejection | UCLA

Genetic Link Between Physical and Social Pain

• Core Finding: Researchers at UCLA have identified that the OPRM1 gene (mu-opioid receptor gene), which regulates physical pain sensitivity, is also linked to how individuals experience social rejection.
• Study Methodology:
  • 122 participants provided saliva samples to determine their OPRM1 gene variant.
  • Participants completed surveys measuring self-reported sensitivity to rejection.
  • 31 participants underwent fMRI brain scans while being socially excluded during a virtual ball-tossing game.
• Key Results:
  • Individuals with the rare form of the OPRM1 gene reported higher sensitivity to rejection.
  • fMRI scans showed that these individuals experienced greater activity in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and anterior insula—brain regions associated with the distress of physical pain—when excluded.
• Evolutionary Perspective: Researchers suggest that the social attachment system may have "borrowed" mechanisms from the physical pain system to ensure humans maintain vital social connections.
• Publication Details: Published August 14 in the early online edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
• Key Researchers: Naomi Eisenberger (UCLA assistant professor of psychology) and Baldwin Way (UCLA postdoctoral scholar).
• Funding: Supported by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the National Institute on Aging, and the Harry Frank Guggenheim Foundation.