Recent newspaper reports have commented on studies by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and reported in the April issue of Phamacogenomics concerning the discovery of a genetic basis for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). ProHealth is now offering you a link to the full transcript of the press conference announcing these findings.

The studies used multiple research technologies and extensive clinical testing to identify unique aspects of genetic expression among individuals suffering CFS relative to the general healthy population. There is no single gene responsible for CFS. However, three specific gene sequences were found that are associated with the brain activities that mediate the reaction to stress and are highly correlated with the expression of symptoms of CFS. The activity level of these gene sequences are also stronger among individuals with CFS. These gene sequences involve gluco-corticoid receptors, serotonin signaling and the sympathetic nervous system.

Researchers stated that "For the first time ever, we have documented that people with CFS have certain genes that are related to those parts of brain activity that mediate the stress response.Why is it important? Well, knowing that there is now a biologic basis for CFS will help us identify better ways to more effectively diagnose the illness and to come up with more effective treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy, medications or a combination of both."

Individuals with CFS have significantly higher Allostatic Load (stress) indexes. Different gene expressions of the three key genetic sequences seem to differentiate between the sudden or the gradual onset of CFS symptoms. Early life stresses are associated with the later outbreak of CFS.

Researchers concluded by saying "The working hypothesis is that the HPA axis and the brain is a plastic organ which changes its actual physical architecture depending on stresses that are accumulated over the lifetime. ...all the stresses that we experience ... throughout the lifespan, to some extent the genetics determine how you are going to react to them, they determine how your allostatic load may accumulate, and more importantly, they actually determine your subsequent reaction to stress applied at a later time during the lifespan..."

Facts about the impact of CFS:

One million people in America suffer from CFS.

Only 16% of the CFS patients identified in the study have been diagnosed and treated.

One-quarter of CFS patients are on disability or out of work.

Having a family member with CFS reduces family income by $20,000 per year.

 

The entire interview: [http://www.immunesupport.com/library/showarticle.cfm?id=7141&T=CFIDS_FM]