The Intricate Link Between Trace Elements and Fibromyalgia: New Research Sheds Light on Potential Causes and Future Treatments
Fibromyalgia (FM), a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and other debilitating symptoms, affects millions of Americans. while the exact cause of FM remains elusive, recent research suggests a potential connection between trace elements and the development and progression of the disease.A groundbreaking study published in Science Reports by Wenxing Zeng and colleagues from the First Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine in China, found a meaningful association between copper (Cu) and iron (Fe) levels and the risk of developing FM.
“There is evidence suggesting that abnormalities in trace element metabolism might potentially be associated with the development and progression of the disease,” the researchers wrote. 1
This study, which analyzed data from large-scale genetic studies, utilized advanced statistical methods like inverse-variance weighting (IVW), Mandelian randomization egger, weighted median, weighted mode, and simple mode. They found that higher levels of copper were linked to an increased risk of FM, while lower levels of iron were associated with a decreased risk.
These findings are especially intriguing because they suggest a potential biological mechanism underlying FM.
“Our findings provide new insights for future research,particularly in exploring how Cu and Fe influence the onset and progression of FM,” the researchers emphasized. 1
Understanding the Potential Roles of Copper and Iron
While the exact mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated,the researchers propose several potential pathways through which copper and iron could influence FM.
Copper: Copper plays a crucial role in various enzymatic reactions, including those involved in energy production, inflammation, and oxidative stress. iron: Iron is essential for oxygen transport and cellular respiration.
Dysregulation of these processes could contribute to the fatigue,pain,and cognitive difficulties often experienced by individuals with FM.
Beyond Copper and Iron: The Broader Picture of Trace Elements and FM
The study also highlights the importance of considering other trace elements in the context of FM.
“Considering the potential interactions between genetic and environmental factors, future work should evaluate how genetic variations interact with factors like diet, lifestyle, and occupational exposures to affect individual susceptibility to FM,” the researchers suggest. 1
For example,zinc deficiency has been linked to inflammation and oxidative stress,both of which are implicated in FM pathogenesis. Magnesium deficiency, conversely, can lead to muscle pain and increased neural excitability, aligning with the hallmark symptoms of FM.
Practical Implications and Future Directions
these findings have significant implications for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of FM.
Early Detection and Intervention:
Understanding the role of trace elements could lead to the development of biomarkers for early detection of FM.
Targeted Therapies:
Manipulating trace element levels through dietary interventions or supplementation could potentially alleviate FM symptoms.
personalized Medicine:
genetic testing could identify individuals at higher risk for FM based on their trace element metabolism profiles, allowing for personalized preventive strategies.
Further Research is Crucial
While this research provides valuable insights, notably more studies are needed to confirm these findings and explore the complex interplay between trace elements, genetics, and environmental factors in FM.
References:
- Zeng, W., Hu, M., Ma, L. et al. Copper and iron as unique trace elements linked to fibromyalgia risk. Sci Rep 15, 4019 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-86447-4
- Chen, L., Min, J. & Wang,F. Copper homeostasis and cuproptosis in health and disease. Signal. Transduct. Target. Therapy. 7 (1), 378. (2022)
- macchi C, Giachi A, Fichtner I, et al. Mitochondrial function in patients affected with fibromyalgia syndrome is impaired and correlates with disease severity. Sci Rep* (2024): 14(30247). doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-81298-x
The Link Between Trace Elements and Fibromyalgia: An Interview with a Rising Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome! thank you for joining us today to discuss your recent research on the fascinating connection between trace elements and fibromyalgia (FM).
Rising Expert: It’s my pleasure to be here. This is a rapidly evolving field, and I’m excited to share what we’re learning.
Time.news editor: For those unfamiliar, FM is a chronic condition causing widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and more. What led you to investigate the role of trace elements in FM?
Rising Expert: While the precise cause of FM remains a mystery, researchers have long observed links between nutritional deficiencies and various pain conditions. We wanted to delve deeper into whether specific trace elements played a role in FM.
Time.news Editor: Your recent study, published in Science Reports, found a significant association between copper and iron levels and FM risk. can you elaborate on those findings?
Rising Expert: Absolutely. our analysis of large genetic datasets uncovered that higher copper levels where linked to an increased risk of FM,while lower iron levels were associated with a decreased risk.
Time.news Editor: How might these trace elements contribute to FM development?
Rising Expert: It’s likely multi-faceted. Copper is vital for many enzymatic reactions, including those involved in inflammation and oxidative stress – processes known to play a role in FM. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport and cellular respiration. Dysregulation of these processes could contribute to the fatigue, central sensitivity, and other symptoms experienced by individuals with FM.
Time.news Editor: This research opens exciting new avenues for diagnosing and treating FM. What practical implications do you see arising from these findings?
Rising Expert: Understanding the role of trace elements could lead to the development of biomarkers for early FM detection. We could also explore targeted therapies involving dietary interventions or even supplementation to possibly alleviate FM symptoms.
Time.news Editor: Personalized medicine seems like a natural progression.
Rising Expert: Absolutely. Genetic testing could help identify individuals at higher risk for FM based on their trace element metabolism profiles. This opens the door for personalized preventive strategies.
Time.news Editor: What advice would you give to our readers who may be dealing with FM or suspect they might have it?
Rising Expert: I encourage anyone experiencing persistent pain,fatigue,or other FM symptoms to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. while further research is needed, exploring your dietary intake,ensuring adequate nutrient levels,and discussing potential supplements with your doctor could be beneficial.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for sharing your insights with us. We look forward to following your continued research in this groundbreaking area.