In Search of Molecular Correlates of Fibromyalgia: The Quest for Objective Diagnosis and Effective Treatments

TL;DR

This review explores the molecular basis of fibromyalgia, aiming to identify objective biomarkers and improve diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Contribution

The paper synthesizes recent omics and systems biology findings to propose pathways for biomarker-guided, personalized medicine in fibromyalgia.

Findings

Transcriptional, proteomic, and metabolic signatures may enable molecular stratification of fibromyalgia.

Emerging therapies target neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and nociceptive pathways.

Current diagnostic criteria lack objective biomarkers, necessitating large-scale validation of molecular signatures.

Abstract

Fibromyalgia is a chronic syndrome characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, non-restorative sleep, and cognitive impairment. Its pathogenesis reflects a complex interplay between central and peripheral mechanisms, including altered pain modulation, neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, autonomic imbalance, and genetic and epigenetic factors. Evidence from neuroimaging, omics studies, and neurophysiology supports this multifactorial model. Epidemiological updates confirm a global prevalence of 2–8%, with a strong female predominance and a significant impact on quality of life and healthcare costs. Diagnostic criteria have evolved from the 1990 American College of Rheumatology tender points to the 2010/2011 revisions and the 2016 update, improving case ascertainment but still lacking objective biomarkers. Recent omics and systems biology approaches have revealed transcriptional, proteomic, and metabolic signatures that may enable molecularly informed stratification. Therapeutic management remains multidisciplinary, combining pharmacological interventions (e.g., duloxetine, pregabalin, milnacipran) with non-pharmacological strategies such as graded aerobic exercise and cognitive behavioral therapy. Emerging approaches include drug repurposing to target neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and nociceptive pathways. Despite promising advances, progress is limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneous cohorts, and lack of standardization across studies. Future priorities include large-scale validation of biomarkers, integration of multi-omics with clinical phenotyping, and the design of precision-guided trials. By synthesizing mechanistic insights with clinical evidence, this review provides an updated framework for the diagnosis and management of fibromyalgia, highlighting pathways toward biomarker-guided, personalized medicine.

Figures