Investigating immune cell function in ME/CFS and Long Covid
Correlating neutrophil function and plasma cytokine profiles with progression of ME/CFS and Long-Covid/PASC
This study is looking at how the immune system works in people with Myalgic Encephalitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Long Covid, by checking the behavior of certain immune cells in their blood, to help find better ways to diagnose and treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10747979 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the immune response in patients with Myalgic Encephalitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Long Covid/Post-Acute Sequelae of Covid (PASC). By using innovative microfluidic assays, the study examines how neutrophils, a type of immune cell, function in these conditions compared to healthy individuals. Blood samples will be collected from participants to assess neutrophil behavior and inflammatory markers, aiming to uncover shared mechanisms between ME/CFS and Long Covid. The findings could lead to better diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for these debilitating conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with ME/CFS or Long Covid, as well as healthy controls for comparison.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to immune dysfunction or those not diagnosed with ME/CFS or Long Covid may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights that lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for patients suffering from ME/CFS and Long Covid.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated potential links between immune dysfunction and both ME/CFS and Long Covid, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ellett, Felix — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Ellett, Felix
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 below.