The key genetic difference ME sufferers have from others – and what it means
Study shows genes contribute to chance of developing debilitating disease
- A new study, DecodeME, has found significant DNA differences in people with ME/chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), offering the first robust evidence that genes contribute to developing the serious disease.
- Researchers identified eight distinct areas of genetic code in ME/CFS patients that are markedly different from those without the condition, primarily involving genes linked to the immune and nervous systems.
- At least two of the genetic signals relate to how the body responds to infection, aligning with long-standing patient reports that the onset of ME/CFS symptoms often follows an infectious illness.
- The findings are expected to boost credibility for ME/CFS patients, helping to rebuff the stigma and lack of belief often associated with the condition.
- The DecodeME study, described as the world's largest of its kind, analysed DNA samples from over 15,000 participants.