Breakthrough in Diagnosing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Using Biomarkers
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: Science & Technology (Health & Diseases, Biotechnology concepts - RNA, Biomarkers, RNA Sequencing).
Mains: GS Paper 3 (Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Awareness in the fields of Bio-technology).
Key Highlights from the News
Key Finding: Researchers discovered biological markers ('biomarkers') in blood samples that indicate the presence of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS).
Current Challenge: Currently, there are no laboratory tests to diagnose CFS. Doctors rely on symptoms reported by patients (such as fatigue, 'brain fog', etc.) to make a diagnosis.
Research Method: These biomarkers were discovered by sequencing RNA particles that are released into blood plasma due to cell damage.
Significance: This discovery may pave the way for the first objective laboratory test for CFS diagnosis.
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