World’s largest genetic study of ME launched

People suffering from Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) are being sought to participate in the world’s largest genetic study of the disease.

 

The aim of the study, named DecodeME, is to better understand the symptoms and causes of the condition to find treatments.

 

Those taking part in the University of Edinburgh research will complete an online questionnaire about their health and provide a saliva sample.

 

There are currently over 250,000 people affected by ME in the UK, but the cause of the condition are still unknown and there is no effective treatment or diagnostic test.  Symptoms include pain, ‘brain fog’ and extreme exhaustion that cannot be improved through rest.

 

It is hoped the study by the MRC Human Genetics Unit, will reveal the differences in a person’s DNA that can increase their risk of developing ME, also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS).

 

Professor Chris Ponting, lead researcher, said “This is the first sizable DNA study of ME/CFS, and any differences we find compared to control samples will serve as important biological clues.

 

“Specifically, we believe the results should help identify genes, biological molecules and types of cells that may play a part in causing ME/CFS.”

 

Chief executive of Action for ME, Sonya Chowdhury, said “People with lived experience of ME/CFS are at the very heart of the DecodeME project and our Patient and Participant involvement group has worked closely with researchers on all aspects of the study.

 

“Their profound involvement has been so transformational that we firmly believe it sets a new standard for health research in this country.”

 

Chadwick Lawrence’s specialist team of clinical negligence lawyers have years of experience in medical negligence claims, providing support and guidance after life-changing events.  Not only do we represent clients in Yorkshire, but because of our reputation we also represent clients nationally.

 

If you believe that you or a relative may have been injured as a result of clinical/medical negligence, please call for free legal advice from our medical negligence solicitors on the freephone number below.

 

Posted by Tony May, Partner/head of Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (tonymay@chadlaw.co.uk ), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

 

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