Overview
- The UEA–Oxford BioDynamics team analyzed blood from 47 severe ME/CFS patients and 61 healthy controls using EpiSwitch 3D genomics to profile DNA folding.
- The assay reported 92% sensitivity and 98% specificity and identified epigenetic signatures pointing to immune and inflammation pathways.
- Authors noted overlaps between 3D‑genomic sites found here and loci highlighted by the DecodeME genetics study, suggesting converging biological signals.
- External specialists warned of potential confounders including lack of age/sex matching, biobank batch differences, and the use of only healthy—not disease‑matched—controls.
- Commentators called for independent, multi‑centre validation and flagged a likely price near £1,000 as well as Oxford BioDynamics’ commercial involvement.