A research team from Griffith University’s National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases (NCNED) recently conducted a study in which the results point out a potential new direction into the cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME).
In the study, the team, part of the new Menzies Health Institute Queensland, were able to identify important significant factors that may contribute to the pathology of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Specifically, the researchers found certain genetic changes in central receptors related to cellular and immunological function that contribute to the development of CFS/ME.
“These findings have been achieved through a team effort involving researchers, patients, funding bodies, clinicians and the support of Griffith University and the Queensland Government,” said chief investigators Professor Sonya Marshall-Gradisnik and Professor Donald Staines in a recent news release.
In the news release, consultant immunologist and co-researcher Professor Pete Smith noted the relevant underlying signaling processes are disturbed because of genetic changes involved in the detection and response to hazards.
“These are primitive genes that are involved in many cellular signals in the brain, gut, cardiovascular and immune systems, as well as in the mediation of pain,” he said in a news release.
Results from this study matched with the week of the International Neuroimmune Awareness, which began last Monday, May 11th.
The event took place every evening on May 11th and the 12th at the university’s Gold Coast campus of The Griffith Health Centre. The event aims to raise awareness of neurological diseases including CFS/ME and also other diseases such as Gulf War Syndrome and Fibromyalgia.
“The lighting up of the Griffith Health Centre signifies Griffith’s commitment to the CFS patient community and our team approach to this research,” said Pro-Vice Chancellor (Health) Professor Allan Cripps in the news release.
CFS/ME caused profound fatigue, cerebral symptoms of impaired memory and concentration, cardiovascular function, muscle and joint pain, gut disorder and sensory dysfunction including balance disturbance and noise intolerance. The condition affect about 250,000 people in the United States, with many cases can continue for months or years.
The research findings are to be presented at an international conference in London later this month.