CompletedObservational

Brain response to light stimulation in people with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome

This research explores how the brains of people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) respond to light. Scientists believe that problems with how brain cells produce energy might play a role in ME/CFS. This study uses a special type of MRI scan, called MRS, to measure a chemical called lactate in the brain. They will compare lactate levels at rest and during a simple task where participants watch flashing lights. The aim is to see if measuring lactate when the brain is active can better show differences between people with ME/CFS and healthy individuals, which could help in finding new ways to diagnose and treat the condition.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Sponsor

University of Oxford

Enrolment target

Start

23 Sep 2024

Estimated completion

27 Oct 2025

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)

What is this study about?

This study is trying to understand what causes Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, often called ME/CFS. Previous research suggests that people with ME/CFS might have problems with how their body's cells, especially brain cells, create energy. When cells don't use energy efficiently, a chemical called lactate can build up. This research aims to measure lactate levels in the brain using a special type of MRI scan. They hope to see if these lactate levels are different in people with ME/CFS compared to healthy people.

The researchers have found that at rest, there might not be a clear difference in lactate levels, making it hard to tell people with ME/CFS apart from healthy individuals. They think that the brain might be able to cope when resting, but when asked to do even simple tasks, the difference might become clearer. To test this, participants will have an MRI scan while doing a simple task: looking at flashing lights. This method is safe and doesn't require much effort, so it's suitable for people with ME/CFS.

By looking at how lactate levels change when the brain is active, the team hopes to get a better understanding of ME/CFS. If they find clear differences, this could be a big step towards finding new ways to diagnose the condition and develop better treatments in the future. This study is an important part of piecing together the puzzle of ME/CFS.

Key takeaways

The study investigates brain energy use in ME/CFS using special MRI scans.
It compares how brains react to flashing lights in ME/CFS patients and healthy individuals.
Participation involves one hospital visit for screening, questionnaires, and a 1.5-hour MRI scan.
Findings could improve understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of ME/CFS.
Safety measures are in place, and you can stop participating anytime.

Who may be eligible?

The study is looking for adults aged 18 or older who have been diagnosed with ME/CFS. They are also looking for healthy adults to compare results with.

There are certain reasons why you might not be able to take part. For example, if you have a pacemaker or other metal implants in your body, you can't have an MRI scan. Also, if you are pregnant or think you might be, or if you have a history of epilepsy or certain severe migraines, this study would not be suitable for you due to the flashing lights used in the scan.

The researchers will ask you some questions to make sure the study is a safe and good fit for you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you have a diagnosis of ME/CFS (or are you a healthy volunteer)?
Do you *not* have a pacemaker, metal implants, or tattoos above your shoulders?
Are you *not* pregnant or planning to become so during the study?
Do you *not* have epilepsy, severe claustrophobia, or photosensitive migraines?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you take part, you'll first have a screening chat, which can be done over the phone or video call, or in person. This is to make sure the study is right for you. Then, you'll have one visit to the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford. During this visit, you will have an MRI scan which takes about 1.5 hours. While in the scanner, you'll be asked to look at some flashing lights. You'll also fill out some questionnaires about your symptoms. The whole visit, including testing and filling out forms, will take about 2 hours in total. There are no medications involved in this study.

Potential risks and benefits

While participating won't directly benefit you, the information gathered could significantly help in understanding ME/CFS, potentially leading to better diagnoses and treatments in the future. The main risks involve the MRI scan, where you'll be in an enclosed space and there's a very rare chance tattoos might warm up. Flashing lights in the scanner might also cause a mild headache. The research team takes great care to ensure your comfort and safety, and you'll have a button to press if you need to stop at any time. It's important to remember you can withdraw from the study at any point without giving a reason.

Locations (1)

University of Oxford
Approximate
Oxford, England

Common questions

What is ME/CFS?

ME/CFS stands for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, a complex illness that causes extreme tiredness among other symptoms that don't improve with rest.

What is an MRI scan?

An MRI scan uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body, including your brain. It does not use X-rays.

What is lactate?

Lactate is a chemical naturally produced by your body, especially when cells produce energy. High levels might suggest that cells aren't using energy in the usual way.

Will the flashing lights hurt my eyes?

No, the flashing lights are not harmful. However, if you are sensitive to light or have certain types of migraines, you will be excluded for your safety.

Will I get results from my scan?

The scans are for research purposes, not for diagnosing medical conditions. If something unexpected and medically important is found, the study doctors will let you know.

How to find out more

Beata Godlewska

beata.godlewska@psych.ox.ac.uk +44 1865 618309 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.