Creating mouse models to study ME/CFS using human gut bacteria
Official title: Development of humanized microbiota mouse models of ME/CFS
Funded at University of Nevada Reno · NIH-11085301 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to create mouse models that mimic Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) by giving them gut bacteria from people with the condition, so researchers can better understand how it affects things like exercise, thinking, and sleep, which could help find new ways to treat the illness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nevada Reno NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Reno, United States) |
| Project start | May 7, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $182,100 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI183042-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11085301 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of ME/CFS or those with unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop mouse models that mimic the condition of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) by transplanting fecal microbiota from affected individuals into mice with human-like immune systems. The researchers will analyze how these transplants affect the mice's exercise tolerance, cognitive function, and sleep patterns, which are similar to symptoms experienced by ME/CFS patients. By using these models, the study seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms of ME/CFS that are difficult to investigate directly in humans. This approach could lead to new insights into the disease and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of ME/CFS and pave the way for new treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown alterations in the gut microbiome in ME/CFS patients, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Nevada Reno
Reno, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lombardi, Vincent C — University of Nevada Reno
- Study coordinator: Lombardi, Vincent C
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.