New Research Project on Autonomic Function in ME/CFS

Purpose: ME Research UK (formerly MERGE) announces funding for a longitudinal cohort study led by Dr. Julia Newton at the University of Newcastle. This study investigates autonomic dysfunction in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and explores its implications for patient outcomes and mortality risk.

Key Points:

1. Research Objectives:
   • The study aims to determine the prevalence of autonomic dysfunction among ME/CFS patients and its relationship with health outcomes.
   • Investigates abnormalities in autonomic function as predictors of excess mortality risk in ME/CFS patients.
2. Why Focus on Autonomic Dysfunction?
   • Previous studies by Drs. Peter Rowe and David Bell showed that ME/CFS patients often experience cardiovascular issues when standing upright, such as changes in vascular volume, heart rate, and blood pressure.
   • Some psychiatrists attribute these changes to cardiovascular deconditioning, but this hypothesis does not apply to many patients.
3. Advanced Testing Techniques:
   • The study utilizes state-of-the-art equipment from Newcastle’s Cardiovascular Laboratory, the largest autonomic testing laboratory in Europe.
   • Researchers employ validated autonomic function tests to measure heart rate and blood pressure responses during various maneuvers.
   • These tests aim to assess the integrity of cardiovascular reflexes, identify the severity of dysfunction, and determine abnormalities in sympathetic or parasympathetic systems.
4. Methodology:
   • The initial cohort includes 100 ME/CFS patients.
   • Continuous monitoring of surface ECG and beat-to-beat blood pressure ensures precise data collection during autonomic reflex tests.
   • Longitudinal follow-up assesses patient progress over time using further tests based on initial findings.
5. Potential Impact:
   • Findings could revolutionize the understanding of autonomic dysfunction in ME/CFS, paving the way for improved diagnosis, management, and patient care.
   • The study emphasizes biomedical investigation to enhance global knowledge of ME/CFS.

Target Audience:

• Healthcare Professionals and Researchers: Scientists and clinicians seeking to expand understanding and treatment of ME/CFS.
• Advocacy Groups and Patients: Individuals advocating for patient-focused, evidence-based care.
• Policymakers and Funders: Decision-makers interested in advancing research initiatives for ME/CFS.

Overall Outcome: ME Research UK’s initiative represents a significant step forward in the biomedical exploration of ME/CFS. By focusing on autonomic dysfunction, the study holds promise for identifying critical factors influencing patient outcomes and developing targeted interventions.