Research Square
Pre-print research paper from Professor Chris Ponting et al at the University of Edinburgh on T cell receptor research using blood samples – 160 PBMCs – from the ME Biobank
Download PDF version of the full paper
Research summary by Dr Shepherd:
Professor Chris Ponting is leading the Decode ME research study at the University of Edinburgh looking at the genetics of ME/CFS.
The ME Biobank is funded – at a cost of around £80,000 per annum – by the MEA Ramsay Research Fund
The ME Biobank supplies blood samples from people with ME/CFS + anonymised clinical data (and multiples sclerosis samples for control purposes) to research groups all over the world
Brief summary on the role of T cells
T cells (or T lymphocytes) are an important part of the immune system orchestra – where they have several different functions relating to how the body responds to infections and allergies.
1 They have a receptor on the cell surface which can recognise and respond to infections, allergies and cancerous cells.
2 They have a memory function in that they can remember previous exposure to infections and allergies.
3 They play a role in maintaining various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions – partly through the production of immune system chemicals called cytokines that are involved in the production of inflammation and inflammation type symptoms
T cell dysfunction has been found in both ME/CFS and Long Covid
Dr Charles Shepherd,
Trustee and Hon. Medical Adviser to the ME Association.
Member of the 2018-2021 NICE Guideline Committee.
Member of the 2002 Independent Working Group on ME/CFS.
Further information: