The world’s largest ME/CFS study

We have now closed participant recruitment, DNA sample collection and the second questionnaire, and moved onto the next crucial stage of the study.

We are now methodically working through the steps of extracting DNA from all the samples and working out their genetic make-up, so that we can compare them against the general population and analyse the results.

When we are entirely convinced we've done the best possible job, and our findings are as definitive as possible, we will publish the results.

Thank you to all DecodeME participants!

Thank you to everyone who has given their precious energy and time to become a participant. We really appreciate everyone who has signed up and is giving their continuing support.

With our ground-breaking research, DecodeME aims to find genetic causes of why people become ill with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME)  / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) .

The study should help us understand the disease and ultimately find treatments.

A female scientist in a laboratory

Watch our webinars to find out more

DNA molecule formed by chains of people

The research

The study is being led by Professor Chris Ponting of the Medical Research Council Human Genetics Unit at the University of Edinburgh.

People with myalgic encephalomyelitis / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) are at the heart of the study, with a patient and a carer as co-investigators alongside the scientists and a steering group of people with the illness, carers and charities.

The research is funded by the Medical Research Council and the National Institute for Health Research. To find out more, read our latest updates, FAQs and explanation of the science.

For more information on the study and taking part, view our Study Documents

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A partnership between

Action for ME logo
Forward ME Logo
UKRI MRC Human Genetics Unit logo
National Institute for health research