Mutation makes kids unable to feel pain

Researchers have discovered a group of Pakistani children who are unable to feel pain. The eldest drew scientific attention while working as a street performer. His act? Walking on hot coals and stabbing knives through his arms.

The five children, all relatives, have a mutation in a gene called SCN9A. SCN9A codes for an important sodium channel in neurons. The mutation in the Pakistani children results in a nonfunctional channel which is essentially glued shut.

At the other end of the spectrum is a different SCN9A mutation. This mutation wedges open the sodium channels, resulting in what’s called “burning man syndome”. Sufferers of the syndrome feel searing pain in response to even mild warmth. Merely putting on socks would trigger horrible burning sensations.

It would seem that the Pakistani children got the better of the SCN9A mutations. But sadly, their pain-free lives have not been uncomplicated. Two are missing bits of their tongues- the result of some inadvertent and unnoticed chomping. Others have neglected cuts and fractures. Without pain as a warning, they can also be reckless. The street-performing boy died after jumping off a roof. I guess at least his passing didn’t hurt.

Listen to NPR’s piece on the subject, or read nature.com’s article.