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New Studies Identify Biological Markers and Mechanisms in ME/CFS

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Biological Breakthroughs in ME/CFS Research: 2024-2025 Findings

Recent research has identified multiple biological differences in individuals with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) compared to healthy controls. Findings from separate studies published in 2024 and 2025 detail cellular, molecular, and neurological changes associated with the condition.

Cellular and Molecular Findings

Immune Cell Energy Deficits

A study published in Cell Reports Medicine examined blood samples from 61 people with ME/CFS and 61 healthy volunteers. Researchers observed differences in immune cells and molecules involved in energy production.

"Energy production in the immune cells of ME/CFS patients was low and not geared toward responding to pathogens." — Lead author Benjamin Heng (University of Sydney)

Elevated plasma proteins were also observed. The research team used machine learning to generate potential laboratory tests that could help identify ME/CFS patients.

Study details:

  • Total sample size: 122 participants
  • Slightly uneven male representation (23 healthy men vs. 14 men with ME/CFS)
  • Participants were at different disease stages with potentially different triggers

Independent researcher Emma Tippett (Burnet Institute) described the sample size as significant for an in vitro study but acknowledged the limitations.

TRPM3 Ion Channel Dysfunction

Separate research from Griffith University's National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases (NCNED), published in Frontiers in Medicine, identified a fault in the TRPM3 ion channel in immune cells from people with ME/CFS. The TRPM3 channel is involved in calcium transport into cells, which regulates immune function.

The team reported a significant and reproducible reduction in TRPM3 activity in ME/CFS patients compared to healthy individuals, observed consistently across different locations, laboratories, and operators.

"The results provide evidence for developing a diagnostic test and could guide the identification of new therapeutic targets." — Lead author Dr. Etianne Sasso

The study involved independent laboratory sites on the Gold Coast and in Perth, with participants from South East Queensland, North East New South Wales, and Western Australia.

Confirming the Genetic Link

Griffith University research fellow Natalie Eaton-Fitch has investigated changes in the TRPM3 ion channel in individuals with ME/CFS since 2016. A recent study confirmed earlier findings among a larger group of 78 participants, including those tested at the University of Western Australia.

Eaton-Fitch stated that the findings suggest a consistent genetic and functional link across ME/CFS patients in Australia.

Neurological Findings

Another study from Griffith University, published in the Journal of Translational Medicine, utilized ultra-high field MRI technology to examine brain activity in individuals with ME/CFS and Long COVID during a mentally demanding task.

Participants underwent a Stroop task while inside an MRI machine. The scans identified changes in brain regions that may contribute to cognitive difficulties such as memory problems, attention deficits, and slowed thinking.

"The task placed high demands on executive function and inhibitory control, allowing researchers to measure brain activation." — Lead author Maira Inderyas

The ultra-high field MRI employed in this study is one of two available in Australia. Funding was provided by ME Research UK and the Stafford Fox Medical Research Foundation.

Disease Background and Impact

ME/CFS is a complex condition characterized by:

  • Extreme fatigue and post-exertional malaise (worsening of symptoms after activity)
  • Pain
  • Dizziness, temperature instability, and sensory sensitivity

There is no single diagnostic test; diagnosis typically involves ruling out other conditions, leading to an average wait of six years.

According to the support organization Emerge Australia:

  • Up to 250,000 Australians (approximately one percent of the population) are estimated to have ME/CFS
  • Of these, an estimated 25 percent (approximately 60,000 people) are housebound or bedridden
  • ME/CFS is frequently triggered by viral infections, bacterial infections, or physical trauma
  • Women are twice as likely as men to be affected

Future Research and Treatment

Researchers have stated that the findings may help develop diagnostic tests and treatments for ME/CFS.

Dr. Eaton-Fitch's work will continue to investigate the TRPM3 ion channel fault as a potential biomarker, with the goal of developing a blood test.

A new clinical trial is planned for low-dose naltrexone, a drug previously observed to restore TRPM3 ion function and alleviate ME/CFS symptoms in laboratory tests. Naltrexone is approved in Australia for treating alcohol and opioid dependence but has been used off-label for various conditions.

Researchers hope the trial will provide sufficient evidence to support wider prescription of low-dose naltrexone for ME/CFS and its inclusion on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

Funding for the Griffith University research was provided by the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia and the Stafford Fox Medical Research Foundation.