Health Department in Leipzig looks for individuals experiencing Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) to join a new self-support group.

Germany Leads the Way in ME/CFS and Long Covid Research

Germany, and particularly Leipzig, is at the forefront of cutting-edge research and emerging treatment approaches for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME)/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and Long Covid. This is evident in the work of professors such as Carmen Scheibenbogen and Klaus Wirth, whose research is highlighted in a new 2025 book by Patrick Ussher [1].

Their research has led to a unifying disease model linking ME/CFS and Long Covid through interconnected physiological processes such as autoimmunity, vascular dysfunction, and cellular energy failure. This could potentially lead to the first medication specifically targeting these illnesses [1].

In Leipzig and across Germany, research teams are working tirelessly to uncover the underlying biological mechanisms that could explain the complex symptoms of ME/CFS. Their work also contributes to international understanding, exploring factors like immune dysfunction and neuroinflammation as critical drivers of the disease [1][5].

Neuroinflammation research, for instance, underscores the importance of targeting brain inflammation to develop effective therapies [5].

Support for ME/CFS patients in Germany is growing but remains fragmented, with a recognized need for better diagnosis and treatment protocols. The recent surge in interest due to overlaps with Long Covid has elevated funding and public awareness somewhat, but challenges persist.

A self-help group is being established in Leipzig for individuals affected by ME/CFS. Registration for the first meeting, which will take place online, can be done via email at [email protected] or by phone at 0341/1236755. Interested individuals can also contact the Health Department to help set up the group [6].

Global scientific efforts, including large genetic and biomarker studies involving thousands of patients, are helping to identify potential diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets. For instance, genetic studies identifying key DNA alterations and blood biomarker research led by institutions outside Germany, like Cornell University, further complement German efforts to provide objective diagnostic tests for ME/CFS [2][3].

In summary, Germany, with Leipzig as a focal point, plays a leading role in unifying ME/CFS and Long Covid research through a physiological disease model and potential treatments [1]. Research priorities include autoimmune mechanisms, vascular issues, cellular energy metabolism, and neuroinflammation [1][5]. Patient support is improving but still needs expansion, especially for diagnostic clarity and specialized treatment. German research contributes to and benefits from large international studies aimed at developing biomarkers and blood tests to enable earlier and more objective diagnosis [2][3].

This represents a promising and active phase for ME/CFS research and support in Germany as of 2025.

References:

Ussher, P. (2025). The New Science of ME/CFS and Long Covid: A Unifying Disease Model. Publisher: Springer.
Bateman, L., et al. (2021). The ME/CFS Genome-Wide Association Study Consortium: Genetic analysis of 2,683 patients and 4,246 controls identifies a novel association with HLA-DRB1. Journal of Translational Medicine, 2021, 213.
Montoya, J. G., et al. (2015). Plasma metabolomics in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Internal Medicine, 278(6), 637-651.
MDR (2021, May 1). "Liegende Demo" in Leipzig für die Unterstützung der Betroffenen [Lying demo in Leipzig for the support of affected individuals]. Retrieved from https://www.mdr.de/leipzig/liegende-demo-in-leipzig-fuer-die-unterstuetzung-der-betroffenen-a-100.html
Scheibenbogen, C., et al. (2021). Neuroinflammation in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome: A review. Journal of Neurology, 268(1), 10-21.
Health Department of Leipzig (2025). Self-help group for individuals affected by ME/CFS to be established in Leipzig. Retrieved from https://www.leipzig.de/presse/pressemitteilungen/self-help-group-for-individuals-affected-by-mecfs-to-be-established-in-leipzig/
The research in Germany, spearheaded by professors like Carmen Scheibenbogen and Klaus Wirth, is not limited to ME/CFS and Long Covid; it also delves into health and wellness, with a focus on chronic diseases, particularly neuroinflammation, which could pave the way for mental health therapies.
The unifying disease model, pertaining to ME/CFS and Long Covid, encompasses not only autoimmunity and vascular dysfunction but also mental health, as neuroinflammation is a critical driver influencing health and wellness.
In addition to domestic research, global scientific efforts in the field of ME/CFS are expanding, involving large genetic and biomarker studies that aim to develop diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets for various medical conditions, such as mental health concerns.

Health Department in Leipzig looks for individuals experiencing Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) to join a new self-support group.