Neuroinflammatory processes in post-infectious ME/CFS

Project description

Although neurological symptoms are characteristic of ME/CFS and changes in the central nervous system have been observed compared to healthy individuals, the underlying molecular processes are still insufficiently understood. Research shows, for example, reduced blood flow and microstructural changes in the brain, altered metabolism including elevated lactate levels in the cerebrospinal fluid, and inflammation of the nervous system. Many of these findings have been confirmed and expanded upon by research on post-COVID syndrome.

Marlen Alisch from the Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC) at the Charité - University Medicine Berlin and Max Delbrück Center (MDC) in Berlin aims to contribute to a better understanding of these neurological changes. Her research project aims to investigate neuroinflammatory processes in the central nervous system in ME/CFS using a human cell culture model. For this purpose, neurons, astrocytes, and microglia will be produced from human stem cells and incubated with sera from ME/CFS patients after SARS-CoV-2 and other triggers, as well as healthy controls. Dr Alisch aims to investigate whether the neurons are damaged and how the activity of astrocytes and microglia is altered by factors in the serum of the patients.

Microglia and astrocytes are specialised cells of the central nervous system with important functions for brain health and function. Microglia act as immune cells of the brain: They recognise and eliminate pathogens, cellular debris, and harmful proteins. They also play a role in inflammatory processes and neuronal development. Astrocytes provide structural and functional support to neurons. They regulate blood flow, maintain the blood-brain barrier, control neurotransmitter balance, and supply neurons with nutrients. Both cell types are also involved in neuronal communication and can respond to disturbances in the brain with complex reactions. Dysfunctions of microglia and astrocytes are associated with various neurological diseases, with there also being evidence of their dysfunction in ME/CFS.

The research team around Dr Alisch have already used the human cell culture system consisting of neurons, astrocytes, and microglia for studies on multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMSOD). They now want to use and optimise it for research into ME/CFS. The results could provide valuable information about the interplay between the immune system and the central nervous system, thus expanding the understanding of the disease process in ME/CFS.

Description adapted from project website: see link above.