Researchers from the University of Edinburgh Identify Genetic Variations
Researchers from the University of Edinburgh announced on Wednesday that they discovered genetic differences in individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), which should help dispel the notion that this debilitating condition is psychological or due to laziness.
Study Details and Findings
In their study, researchers identified eight genetic code areas that differ in ME/CFS patients compared to healthy volunteers. This finding, according to the researchers, constitutes “the first solid evidence that genes contribute to a person’s likelihood of developing the disease,” as stated in their press release.
Characteristics and Prevalence of ME/CFS
ME/CFS is characterized by worsening fatigue, pain, and brain fog even after minor physical or mental activities. Little is known about the causes of ME/CFS, and there are no diagnostic tests or cure available. The researchers estimate that this condition affects around 67 million people worldwide.
DecodeME Study Analysis
The DecodeME study analyzed DNA samples from 15,579 individuals who reported experiencing chronic fatigue in a questionnaire and 259,909 individuals who did not report such symptoms, all of European descent.
- The most frequent genetic variants in individuals reporting ME/CFS symptoms were associated with immune and nervous systems.
- At least two genetic regions are linked to the body’s response to infections, aligning with reports that symptoms often emerge following an infectious illness.
- Another genetic region had previously been identified in individuals with chronic pain, another common ME/CFS symptom.
Implications and Expert Opinions
Andy Devereux-Cooke, a researcher involved in the study, stated that the findings “align with decades of patient experiences” and should “change the game in ME/CFS research.” He added that these results do not immediately imply the development of a test or cure but will help better understand the disease.
However, some scientists who did not participate in the study pointed out that using volunteers self-reporting ME/CFS symptoms instead of restricting participation to those diagnosed by medical professionals somewhat weakened their conclusions. They called for broader studies to replicate the results.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What is chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)?
A: CFS, or ME/CFS, is a complex, debilitating condition characterized by extreme fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest, sleepiness, cognitive difficulties (brain fog), and various other symptoms.
- Q: What did the University of Edinburgh study find?
A: Researchers discovered eight genetic code areas that differ in individuals with ME/CFS compared to healthy volunteers, providing the first solid evidence that genes contribute to a person’s likelihood of developing the disease.
- Q: How might these findings impact ME/CFS research?
A: According to researchers, these findings should change the game in ME/CFS research by aligning with patient experiences and potentially leading to a better understanding of the disease.
- Q: Are there any limitations to these findings?
A: Some scientists not involved in the study noted that using self-reported symptoms instead of professional diagnoses may weaken the conclusions. They emphasized the need for broader studies to replicate these results.
