Current Ramsay Research Funded (RRF) Projects
Origin
- Builds on 2019 work by Prof. Ron Davis detecting electrical abnormalities in ME/CFS blood cells.
Initial Study
- Funded by ME Association and ME Research UK in 2023; showed distinct electrical properties in ME/CFS PBMCs vs. healthy controls.
Key Findings
- Suggests ion channel dysfunction and altered ionic composition in ME/CFS cells
- Electrical signatures may distinguish ME/CFS from other conditions
- Supports potential for a diagnostic biomarker
Phase II Goals
- Test a larger, more diverse cohort
- Improve sample preparation and compare fresh vs. cryopreserved cells
- Compare ME/CFS with Long Covid, MS, and healthy controls
- Investigate ion channel mechanisms and test low-dose naltrexone (LDN) as a potential modulator
Previous Research & Observations:
- LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone) has shown safety and effectiveness in chronic conditions like Fibromyalgia.
- Observational studies suggest LDN may improve energy, pain, and sleep in ME/CFS patients, with only minor adverse effects reported.
About Naltrexone:
- Naltrexone is an opiate antagonist approved for alcohol and opiate use disorders.
- Used off-label at low doses for ME/CFS, Fibromyalgia, and Crohn’s disease.
Mechanism of Action (LDN):
- Temporarily blocks certain opioid receptors, increasing their number and sensitivity.
- Enhances circulation of endogenous opiate-like molecules, which are typically reduced in ME/CFS.
- Potential effects include reduced pain and inflammation, improved immune function, and enhanced well-being.
- May counterbalance the pro-inflammatory state associated with early ME/CFS, supporting recovery.
Definition and Symptoms:
- Dysautonomia is a clinical syndrome involving dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system (ANS).
- The ANS regulates vital functions like heart rate, digestion, and body temperature.
- Common symptoms include:
- Abnormal heart rate fluctuations
- Headaches
- Anxiety
- Excessive or reduced sweating
- Severe fatigue
Association with ME/CFS and Long Covid:
- Dysautonomia is present in over half of patients with ME/CFS and Long Covid.
- Despite prevalence, standardized treatment options remain limited.
Need for Research:
- The persistent and debilitating nature of symptoms underscores the need for effective, evidence-based management strategies.
Study Objective:
This pilot study aims to:
- Develop and evaluate a personalized Dysautonomia Management Protocol (DMP)
- Improve symptom management
- Enhance quality of life
- Lay the groundwork for future large-scale research initiatives
Overview of UK ME/CFS Biobank (UKMEB):
- Established in 2011 to support biomedical research into ME/CFS, which was initially funded by Action for M.E. (AFME), ME Research UK 9MERUK) and The ME Association (MEA).
Purpose and Reach:
- Provides high-quality biological samples to research teams worldwide, including:
- UK, Europe, North America, Latin America & the Middle East.
- Known internationally for efficiency and quality.
- Increasing demand for samples reflects its value in advancing ME/CFS research.
Biobank Contents:
- Includes samples from:
- Mild to severely affected ME/CFS patients (ages 18–60)
- Healthy controls
- Patients with neurologically diagnosed multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Types of blood samples stored:
- Serum
- Plasma
- Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC)
- Red blood cells/granulocyte pellet
- Whole blood
- RNA
Funding and Operations:
- Basic running costs now covered by the MEA Ramsay Research Fund (RRF).
Overview:
- In 2023, the ME Association partnered with the Manchester Brain Bank to support post-mortem research into ME/CFS.
- Through the Ramsay Research Fund, detailed examinations of brain and nervous system tissue—including the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglion—will be carried out on at least five individuals aged 18–50 with a confirmed diagnosis.
- The age limit helps ensure findings are specific to ME/CFS rather than age-related changes. Those wishing to donate must meet the same diagnostic and age criteria. Research focuses on the biological, mechanisms underlying ME/CFS, with an emphasis on:
Grant Amount: £101,531.62
University of Oxford
Research Field: Diagnostic Markers
Professor Karl Morten
Start Date: 01/11/2019
Duration: 12 months
Status: In progress
Latest Update: Raman research set to continue thanks to Ramsay Research funding from the ME Association
Numerous research papers have published from this research group – more information on button below
Research History:
- Since 2016, the ME Association has funded multiple research projects at the University of Oxford.
- Research focuses on the biological, mechanisms underlying ME/CFS, with an emphasis on:
- Mitochondrial Dysfunction
- Oxidative Stress
- Metabolic Abnormalities
