ME linked to your genetics – early study indicates
- carolineblake-syme
- Aug 11
- 2 min read
Adapted from a Channel 4 News article by Kathryn Samson, 6 Aug 2025.
Scientists said the findings offer the first robust evidence that genes contribute to a person’s chance of developing the disease.
We’re a long way from a diagnostic test or cure for ME, but the world’s largest genetic study into the disease is celebrating a breakthrough.
The University of Edinburgh’s Institute of Genetics and Cancer has found a genetic link in the DNA of people with ME, compared to the general population.
Scientists said the findings offer the first robust evidence that genes contribute to a person’s chance of developing the disease.
The Decode ME study, uncovered eight areas of genetic code in people with ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome) that are markedly different to the DNA of people without the condition.
The DNA of more than 15 and a half thousand people across the UK was analysed in the five-year study led by Professor Chris Ponting.
Channel 4 was the first broadcast team to be given access to the results of the study, and they joined Professor Ponting three weeks ago, as he went to meet Sarah Chadfield, one of its participants.
Sarah’s story
Sarah was an active school teacher before being diagnosed with moderate ME twelve years ago. Simple tasks can now trigger days of suffering. She says her chair has become the centre of her world.
“It is like my body’s in distress” she says, “and it’s screaming at me. It’s not exactly pain, it’s deeper than pain, and I just have to sit down.”
It’s estimated that around four hundred thousand people in the UK suffer from ME. But many feel the disease is misunderstood – by friends, family and the healthcare profession.
Something Professor Ponting is hoping the initial results of this study can change. He’s come to tell Sarah what they’ve found.
Please see the video from the link in the first paragraph, or click here to read this fascinating article in full.
Therapy for ME and CFS at The Brightwell.
Doro Pasantes, CEO at The Brightwell, explains:
“We have lots of members living with ME and CFS, who regularly have sessions of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. Many have been coming to us on a weekly or fortnightly basis for many years. The reported benefits are mostly focused on the significant reduction in fatigue and brain fog. Users advise us that they experience higher energy levels after their Oxygen sessions, plus a feeling of wanting to do more improves the overall well-being of our members living with such conditions.”
If you would like to find out more, please call 01454 201686 or email hello@thebrightwell.org.uk
Please also visit www.thebrightwell.org.uk/oxygen-therapy
Comments