New Genetic Clues Link Chronic Fatigue Syndrome to Biology, Not Imagination

Scientists from the University of Edinburgh have identified genetic differences in individuals living with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), offering fresh biological insight into a condition that has long been misunderstood. Their findings challenge outdated beliefs that CFS, also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), is simply psychological or linked to laziness.

The research, which analyzed DNA from over 275,000 people of European ancestry, revealed eight distinct genetic variations in individuals with ME/CFS compared to those without. Many of these differences are tied to the immune and nervous systems, reinforcing patient experiences and previous observations that symptoms often follow an infection.

Notably, two of the affected gene regions play a role in the body’s response to illness, while another is associated with chronic pain, a frequent symptom among those with ME/CFS.

While there’s currently no diagnostic test or cure, this study, part of the DecodeME project, marks a breakthrough in understanding the biological roots of the condition, which impacts an estimated 67 million people globally. Researcher Andy Devereux-Cooke described the findings as potentially transformative for the field.

Experts unaffiliated with the study praised the progress but cautioned that more work is needed. Since the participants self-reported their condition rather than being medically diagnosed, larger and more clinically controlled studies are necessary to confirm the results. According to Dr. Jackie Cliff of Brunel University, significant funding will be essential to turn these discoveries into effective treatments.

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Source: Nancy Lapid, Reuters