Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have identified DNA differences in people with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), offering new evidence that the condition has a biological basis rather than being psychological or the result of laziness.
The study pinpointed eight regions of the genetic code that differ between individuals with myalgic encephalomyelitis—commonly known as CFS—and healthy volunteers. According to the research team, these findings provide the first genetic evidence that certain people may be more predisposed to the illness. Key symptoms include severe fatigue, pain, and “brain fog” that worsen after even minimal physical or mental activity.
CFS is estimated to affect around 67 million people worldwide. For this research, scientists analysed DNA samples from 15,579 people who self-reported a CFS diagnosis in a survey, alongside 259,909 individuals without the condition, all of European ancestry.
The yet-to-be peer-reviewed study found that the most common genetic variations in CFS patients were linked to the immune and nervous systems. At least two of the identified genetic regions were associated with how the body responds to infections—aligning with patient reports that symptoms often begin after contracting an infectious illness.
Researchers also noted one genetic region previously linked to chronic pain, another common feature of the condition.
“These results are consistent with the lived experiences reported by patients for decades,” said study co-author Andy Devereux-Cooke, emphasising the need for more in-depth research to better understand CFS and improve diagnosis and treatment options.
