Antibodies
Antibodies - Prof. Dr. Sasha Zhernakova / Dr. Thomas Vogl
The immune system, or defense system, protects our body against intruders such as viruses and bacteria. There is evidence that disrupted immune responses are involved in ME/CFS.
The researchers in this project are mapping the immune responses of 900 people with ME/CFS and 900 people without ME/CFS. For more than 400 of the people with ME/CFS, blood samples were collected before they developed the illness. This makes it possible to study which immune responses precede the onset of the disease.
To do this, the researchers are using a new technology they have developed. This technology can map immune responses directed against hundreds of thousands of bacterial and viral fragments. Using advanced analytical techniques, the researchers search for immune responses that are characteristic of ME/CFS. The data from people with ME/CFS are compared with data from people without ME/CFS.
If certain viruses or bacteria are found to play a role in the development of ME/CFS, this could provide new opportunities for treatment and prevention through vaccination.
Prof. Dr. Sasha Zhernakova
Sasha Zhernakova’s research group studies the role of various genetic and environmental factors in common diseases and traits.
Dr. Thomas Vogl
Thomas Vogl leads a research group at the Medical University of Vienna in Austria.
Other Projects
Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM)
People with ME/CFS experience a worsening of their symptoms after exertion, and this can last for a long time. This is called post exertional malaise (PEM).
Gut Microbiome
By gut microbiome we mean the microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that live in the intestines.
Genetic predisposition
The development of ME/CFS may be determined for 48–56% by a person’s hereditary predisposition, in other words, their genetic (DNA) background.
Partners
