NYMC Faculty Publications
Suppressed Immune and Metabolic Responses to Intestinal Damage-Associated Microbial Translocation in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Author Type(s)
Faculty
DOI
10.1016/j.bbih.2023.100627
Journal Title
Brain, Behavior, & Immunity - Health
First Page
100627
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
7-1-2023
Department
Medicine
Abstract
The etiology and mechanism of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) are poorly understood and no biomarkers have been established. Specifically, the relationship between the immunologic, metabolic, and gastrointestinal abnormalities associated with ME/CFS and their relevance to established symptoms of the condition remain unclear. Relying on data from two independent pairs of ME/CFS and control cohorts, one at rest and one undergoing an exercise challenge, we identify a state of suppressed acute-phase innate immune response to microbial translocation in conjunction with a compromised gut epithelium in ME/CFS. This immunosuppression, along with observed enhancement of compensatory antibody responses to counter the microbial translocation, was associated with and may be mediated by alterations in glucose and citrate metabolism and an IL-10 immunoregulatory response. Our findings provide novel insights into mechanistic pathways, biomarkers, and potential therapeutic targets in ME/CFS, including in the context of exertion, with relevance to both intestinal and extra-intestinal symptoms.
Recommended Citation
Uhde, M., Indart, A. C., Green, P. H., Yolken, R. H., Cook, D. B., Shukla, S. K., Vernon, S. D., & Alaedini, A. (2023). Suppressed Immune and Metabolic Responses to Intestinal Damage-Associated Microbial Translocation in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Brain, Behavior, & Immunity - Health, 30, 100627. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbih.2023.100627