Investigating red blood cell changes in chronic fatigue syndrome

Mechanophenotyping RBC subpopulations in ME/CFS

NIH-funded research San Jose State University · NIH-11043930

This study is looking at how red blood cells work in people with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) to see if there are any differences compared to healthy individuals, which could help improve diagnosis and treatment for the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSan Jose State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Jose, United States)
Project IDNIH-11043930 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how red blood cells (RBCs) behave in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). By examining the deformability of RBCs, the study aims to identify differences between ME/CFS patients and healthy individuals. The researchers will use advanced microfluidic technology to sort RBCs based on their ability to change shape and will analyze the metabolic and structural characteristics of these cells. This approach may help uncover biological markers for ME/CFS and improve diagnosis and treatment options.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients with other unrelated conditions or those who do not have ME/CFS may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and targeted treatments for patients suffering from ME/CFS.

How similar studies have performed: While research on RBC deformability is ongoing, this specific approach to ME/CFS is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

San Jose, 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.
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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.