Investigating how exercise affects symptoms in chronic fatigue syndrome.

A Cardiovascular Analysis of Post-exertional Malaise.

NIH-funded research Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-10802416

This study is looking at how people with chronic fatigue syndrome feel worse after even small amounts of activity, and it uses special exercise tests to find out what happens in their bodies during and after exercise, with the goal of improving how we diagnose and treat this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10802416 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), particularly the phenomenon known as post-exertional malaise (PEM), which leads to increased symptoms after minimal exertion. The study employs cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPET) to assess metabolic responses in patients, aiming to identify specific metabolic deficits that occur after exercise. By conducting sequential tests, researchers hope to better understand the variations in patient responses and the underlying mechanisms of PEM. This could lead to improved diagnostic criteria and treatment strategies for individuals suffering from CFS.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome who experience post-exertional malaise.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome or those who do not experience post-exertional malaise may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and targeted treatments for patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown varying results regarding metabolic responses in CFS patients, indicating that while some findings are established, this specific approach to understanding PEM is still being explored.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.