Researchers Find Retroviral Link to ME/CFS
October 9, 2009 by Sandy Robinson
Filed under Research
News was just released yesterday that researchers have found a retroviral link to ME/CFS. Researchers at the Whittemore-Peterson Institute, the Cleveland Clinic and the National Cancer Institute report from a study that 67% of 101 ME/CFS patients tested positive for infection with xenobiotic murine retrovirus (XMRV), a gammaretrovirus associated with a subset of prostate cancer. Out of 218 healthy individuals that were studied, only 3.7% tested positive for XMRV.
Judy Mikovits, Ph.D., director of research for WPI, had this to say about the research findings:
“We now have evidence that a retrovirus named XMRV is frequently present in the blood of patients with CFS. This discovery could be a major step in the discovery of vital treatment options for millions of patients.”
Researchers want everyone to know that this finding shows that there is an association between XMRV & ME/CFS but it does not prove that the virus actually causes ME/CFS.
Robert H. Silverman, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Cancer Biology at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute said in the press release:
“The discovery of XMRV in two major diseases, prostate cancer and now chronic fatigue syndrome, is very exciting. If cause-and-effect is established, there would be a new opportunity for prevention and treatment of these diseases.”
Retroviruses like XMRV have also been shown to activate a number of other latent viruses. This could explain why so many different viruses, such as Epstein-Barr virus, which was causally linked to Burkitt’s and other lymphomas in the 1970s, have been associated with CFS. It is important to note that retroviruses, like XMRV, are not airborne.
To read the entire press release on this new finding, please read Consortium of Researchers Discover Retroviral Link to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
So what do you all think about this research? It has been believed for a long time that retroviruses had a role in ME/CFS. Does it concern anyone that a retrovirus linked to cancer has been found linked to ME/CFS? Post your thoughts!
ME/CFS Research Abstracts from ProHealth
September 11, 2009 by Sandy Robinson
Filed under Research
New tool differentiates ME/CFS-related fatigue from other fatigue states
Severe, persisting fatigue is a prominent symptom of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/ chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), but individuals with this illness frequently report the occurrence of unique fatigue states that might be different from conventional symptoms of fatigue. The present study attempted to assess a comprehensive set of fatigue symptoms that have been commonly reported among patients with ME/CFS.
The Relationship of Fennell Phases to Symptoms among Patients With Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
The Fennell Phase Inventory (FPI) is an instrument designed to measure phases of the illnesses known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). The current study explored how the FPI was related to physical and psychological functioning as well as coping style. Based on FPI scores, 111 adults with ME/CFS were placed in one of three groups: crisis, stabilization, or resolution.
Green tea compounds support telomere protection, cut cell ‘age’ 5 years
Environmental and lifestyle factors that affect oxidative stress and inflammation may influence telomere length (TL). There are limited data to relate the effect of dietary components on telomere length. The present study examined the association between food groups and telomere length in a sample of elderly Chinese.
Trial proves soluble fiber an effective option for calming IBS symptoms
Objective: To determine the effectiveness of increasing the dietary content of soluble fibre (psyllium) or insoluble fibre (bran) in patients with irritable bowel syndrome.
Epigallocatechin gallate [EGCG/green tea extract] ameliorates chronic fatigue syndrome in mice
Three decades after the coining of the term chronic fatigue syndrome, the diagnosis of this illness is still symptom based and the etiology remains elusive. Chronic fatigue syndrome pathogenesis seems to be multifactorial and the possible involvement of immune system is supported.
Fatigue and chronic fatigue syndrome-like complaints in the general population
Most knowledge on chronic fatigue (CF) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is based on clinical studies, not representative of the general population. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of fatigue in an adult general population and to identify associations with lifestyle factors.
Neurologic signs and symptoms in fibromyalgia
Neurologic symptoms lasting at least 3 months were assessed with a standard questionnaire. We used logistic regression to evaluate the association of neurologic symptoms and examination findings with FM status. Within the FM group we examined the correlation between self-reported symptoms and physical examination findings.
Neuropsychological functioning of U.S. Gulf War veterans 10 years after the war
Many U.S. Gulf War-era veterans complained of poor cognition following the war. This study assessed neuropsychological functioning in veterans 10 years after the war through objective tests. 2,189 Gulf War-era veterans (1,061 deployed, 1,128 non-deployed) were examined at 1 of 16 U.S. Veterans Affairs medical centers. Outcomes included neuropsychological domains derived from factor analysis and individual test scores.
ME/CFS Research Abstracts from ProHealth
August 21, 2009 by Sandy Robinson
Filed under Research
“Small heart syndrome,” previously referred to as so-called “neurocirculatory asthenia” associated with a small heart shadow on the chest roentgenogram, is characterized by weakness or fatigue even after mild exertion, palpitation, dyspnea, and fainting, many of which resemble symptoms in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).
Examination of anticardiolipin antibodies (ACAs) in the sera of patients clinically diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) using an enzyme-linked immunoassay procedure demonstrated the presence of immunoglobulin M isotypes in 95% of CFS serum samples tested.
Adjuvant use of nutritional and herbal medicines has potential to increase the efficacy of synthetic pharmaceuticals, and perhaps also decrease their side-effects by allowing lower doses to be prescribed. We evaluated current evidence for adjuvant use of nutritional and herbal medicines with antidepressants, mood stabilizers and benzodiazepines; and explored novel future areas of research. The paper also critiques current evidence for co-administration of St. John’s wort with synthetic antidepressants.
Limited sunlight exposure depresses cognitive function as well as mood
A lack of sunlight is associated with reduced cognitive function among depressed people. A free access report published Jul 28 in Environmental Health(1) explains how US researchers used weather data from NASA satellites to measure sunlight exposure across the country, and linked this information to the prevalence of cognitive impairment in depressed people.
A role for corticotropin-releasing factor in functional gastrointestinal disorders
Functional gastrointestinal disorders, which include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), encompass a heterogeneous group of diseases identified by chronic or recurrent symptom-based diagnostic criteria.
Effect of grape seed extract on blood pressure in subjects with the metabolic syndrome
This study was undertaken to determine whether grape seed extracts (GSE) that contain powerful vasodilator phenolic compounds lower blood pressure in subjects with the metabolic syndrome. [Vasodilators widen blood vessels by relaxing the smooth muscle cells in vessel walls.]
Transfusion-transmitted Babesia microti identified through hemovigilance
Background: Babesia microti, the primary cause of human babesiosis in the United States, is an intraerythrocytic parasite [infecting red blood cells] endemic to the Northeast and upper Midwest. Published studies indicate that B. microti increasingly poses a blood safety risk. The American Red Cross Hemovigilance Program herein describes the donor and recipient characteristics of suspected transfusion-transmitted B. microti cases reported between 2005 and 2007.
Identified aetiological factors for chronic widespread pain (CWP) are largely related to emotional and behavioral factors, but current management leads to modest improvement in symptoms. Vitamin D deficiency has been suggested as a new modifiable risk factor for CWP.
ME/CFS Research Abstracts from ProHealth
July 28, 2009 by Sandy Robinson
Filed under Research
Omega-3 deficiency 6th biggest cause of avoidable death in U.S.
Knowledge of the number of deaths caused by risk factors is needed for health policy and priority setting. Our aim was to estimate the mortality effects of the following 12 modifiable dietary, lifestyle, and metabolic risk factors in the United States (US) using consistent and comparable methods: high blood glucose, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and blood pressure; overweight–obesity; high dietary trans fatty acids and salt; low dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids, omega-3 fatty acids (seafood), and fruits and vegetables; physical inactivity; alcohol use; and tobacco smoking.
Increased d-lactic acid intestinal bacteria in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome
Patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) are affected by symptoms of cognitive dysfunction and neurological impairment, the cause of which has yet to be elucidated. However, these symptoms are strikingly similar to those of patients presented with D-lactic acidosis.
A Gene Signature for Post-Infectious Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
At present, there are no clinically reliable disease markers for chronic fatigue syndrome. DNA chip microarray technology provides a method for examining the differential expression of mRNA from a large number of genes. The hypothesis was that a gene expression signature, generated by microarray assays, could help identify genes which are dysregulated in patients with CFS and so provide biomarkers for the condition.
Chronic fatigue syndrome after infectious mononucleosis in adolescents
The goal was to characterize prospectively the course and outcome of chronic fatigue syndrome in adolescents during a 2-year period after infectious mononucleosis.
Red yeast rice for dyslipidemia [high cholesterol] in statin-intolerant patients: A randomized trial
Red yeast rice is an herbal supplement that decreases low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol level. ["Bad" cholesterol.]
Because muscle cramps and weakness have been noted in subclinical hypothyroidism, histological skeletal muscle examination may be of diagnostic significance, as the presence of abnormalities would substantiate a significant consequence of the mild thyroid failure presumed to be present in the individual with subclinical hypothyroidism.
The Premenstrual Syndrome and Fibromyalgia: Similarities and Common Features
The aim of the study was to assess the clinical similarities and common features of fibromyalgia syndrome (FM) and premenstrual dysphoric syndrome (PMDD). Thirty young patients who met the diagnostic criteria for PMDD were included in the study and compared to 26 women belonging to the medical staff of a general psychiatry department [control group].
A two-year follow-up study of chronic fatigue syndrome comorbid with psychiatric disorders
Chronic fatigue syndrome patients often have comorbid psychiatric disorders such as major depressive disorders and anxiety disorders. However, the outcomes of chronic fatigue syndrome and the comorbid psychiatric disorders and the interactions between them are unknown.
Tell CDC To Change Their Research Plans for ME/CFS!
June 29, 2009 by Sandy Robinson
Filed under Research
I received an email the other day from the CFIDS Association regarding their hard work in trying to get more research efforts from the CDC on ME/CFS. Show your support by leaving your comments to the CDC no later than June 30th. Please read the email I received from the CFIDS Association in its entirety and the links are provided where you can leave your comments and read more on this ongoing subject.
Dear Supporter,
For nearly two years, the CFIDS Association of America has been working to effect a more robust research effort at CDC. In spite of these diligent ongoing efforts, the past two years of dialogue and public testimony has produced a 5-year draft plan from CDC that is substantially the same as what CDC has been reporting since 2006. Status quo. Groundhog day. Déjà vu. All over again.
In response to CDC’s request for input on its draft plan (posted at http://www.cdc.gov/cfs/meetings/2009_04.htm), the CFIDS Association has prepared a detailed response, making both criticisms and recommendations for how one-half of the nation’s investment in CFS research will be spent through 2013. Our letter is posted at http://www.cfids.org/temp/research-plan-response.pdf for your review. We have used many of CDC’s public reports to document the lack of progress and failure of the program’s leadership to meaningfully advance practice and prevention to improve patients’ lives.
To shift the dialogue and demonstrate a more united front of the research, clinical and patient support communities against the status quo, we invite you to “endorse” the attached letter by sending your own message of support to CDC at CFSResearchPlan@cdc.gov or by responding to the Action Alert! posted at http://capwiz.com/cfids/issues/alert/?alertid=13632546&type=CU.
The deadline for comments is Tuesday, June 30. CDC has committed to keep its e-mail address functioning after this date, so even if you can’t act before June 30, please do so as soon as possible. Share this message with friends and family and ask them to do the same.
$20 million spent over the next five years is hardly sufficient to address the public health challenges that CFS presents, but it’s too much money to waste on a weak, ineffective CDC research plan.K. Kimberly McCleary
President & CEO
The CFIDS Association of America
ME/CFS Research Abstracts From ProHealth
June 19, 2009 by Sandy Robinson
Filed under Research
ProHealth.com is on top of all of the latest research news available on ME/CFS. Here are abstracts from the latest research that you can check out!
Low B12 is major depression risk for women – large population study
An association between low blood levels of folate [vitamin B(9)], vitamins B(6) and B(12) and a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms has been reported in several epidemiological studies. The present study aimed to assess the association between folate, vitamins B(6) and B(12) intake and depression prevalence in the SUN cohort study [a tracking study of university graduates in Spain focused on identifying dietary determinants of various illnesses and conditions].
Below-normal blood volume typical in ME/CFS patients – Klimas, et al.
This study examined whether deficits in cardiac output and blood volume in a Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) cohort were present and linked to illness severity and sedentary lifestyle. Follow-up analyses assessed whether differences between CFS and control groups in cardiac output levels were corrected by controlling for cardiac contractility and total blood volume (TBV).
Distinctive measures of cognitive impairment demonstrated in ME/CFS
This study addresses, among other things, the debate as to whether cognitive deficits do occur with a diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). Previous studies have indicated a potential mismatch between subjective patient ratings of impairment and clinical assessment.
Backache, headache, leg weakness/tingling may be undiagnosed POTS
Clinicians depend on history given by the patients when considering the diagnosis of orthostatic hypotension. [A condition in which a person's blood pressure falls significantly when the person stands up, immediately or within a few moments.]
Post-exertion fatigue linked to poor ’stress-response’ protein production
As heat shock proteins (Hsp) protect the cells against the deleterious effects of oxidative stress, we hypothesized that Hsp expression might be reduced in patients suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) who present an accentuated exercise-induced oxidative stress.
Physiological measures identify limited movement pattern in ME/CFS
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is an illness characterized by pervasive physical and mental fatigue without specific identified pathological changes. Many patients with CFS show reduced physical activity which, though quantifiable, has yielded little information to date. Nonlinear dynamic analysis of physiological data can be used to measure complexity in terms of dissimilarity within timescales and similarity across timescales. A reduction in these objective measures has been associated with disease and aging.
Poor diagnosis of ‘early Lyme-like’ cases points to need for education
Lyme disease, the most common vector-borne infection in North America, is increasingly reported. When the characteristic rash, erythema migrans, is not recognized and treated, delayed manifestations of disseminated infection may occur. The accuracy of diagnosis and treatment of early Lyme disease in the community is unknown.
Public Input Sought On CDC’s 5-Year Plan for ME/CFS Research
April 21, 2009 by Sandy Robinson
Filed under Research
I received an email from the CFIDS Association on two upcoming public meetings that are to be held to discuss the CDC’s 5-year plan for ME/CFS research. If you would like to attend, or just want to attend and give public testimony, here is the date, time and contact information:
When: April 27, 2009 from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.
Where: U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, GA
Deadline for action: April 22, 2009
Respond to: CFSResearchPlan@cdc.gov
Members of the public are encouraged to attend and can register to give public testimony or can submit comments in writing. The CFIDS Association of America will be represented by president & CEO Kim McCleary. Advocates who care about or are concerned about any aspect of the nation’s public health agency response to CFS are urged to participate in person or through written comments.
Federal CFS Advisory Committee (CFSAC)
2-Day Meeting
When: May 27-28, 2009
Where: Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) in Washington, D.C.
Deadline for Action: May 22, 2009
Respond to: (202) 690-7650
The CFSAC brings together representatives of five federal agencies with CFS programs and 11 appointed members of the public. Members of the public are welcome to attend and hear the committee dialogue. Public testimony is heard from those who have registered to deliver comments of up to 5 minutes. The meeting notice does not state whether testimony can be submitted on videotape or given by phone, but both have been permitted in the past.
The CFIDS Association has provided the following links you can review:
Report on CDC research and Association testimony
CFIDS Association Advocacy Alert & Response Form
Federal Register notice of the meeting (published April 6)
