Investigating the role of Human Herpesvirus 6B in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Human Herpesvirus 6B in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome pathogenesis: temporal analysis of viral reactivation and immunity to elucidate cause vs effect
This study is looking at how a virus called Human Herpesvirus 6B might be linked to the symptoms of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) by collecting blood and saliva samples from people with ME/CFS, Long COVID, and healthy individuals to see how the virus affects the immune system over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | London Sch/hygiene & Tropical Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (London, United Kingdom) |
| Project ID | NIH-10903798 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how Human Herpesvirus 6B may contribute to the symptoms of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). By analyzing blood and saliva samples from a diverse group of participants, including those with ME/CFS, Long COVID, and healthy controls, the study aims to determine whether viral reactivation is a cause or a consequence of immune system dysfunction. Participants will undergo clinical assessments and provide biosamples over a longitudinal period to track changes and associations related to the virus. The research seeks to clarify the relationship between viral activity and the severity of ME/CFS symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 18-60 with a diagnosis of ME/CFS or Long COVID presenting ME/CFS symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have ME/CFS, Long COVID, or related symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potentially new treatment options for patients suffering from ME/CFS and related conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding viral contributions to chronic illnesses, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
London, United Kingdom
- London Sch/hygiene & Tropical Medicine — London, United Kingdom (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lacerda, Eliana — London Sch/hygiene & Tropical Medicine
- Study coordinator: Lacerda, Eliana
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.