Evidence of mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired redox signalling in a subgroup of patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome
Cara Tomas, Jessica Newton, Stuart Watson · The EPMA Journal · 2017 · DOI
Quick Summary
This UK study analyzed mitochondrial function in immune cells from ME/CFS patients using the Seahorse assay. They found reduced ATP production capacity, impaired electron transport chain function, and altered redox signaling in a subgroup of ME/CFS patients compared to healthy controls.
Why It Matters
Direct measurement of mitochondrial function in ME/CFS cells provides mechanistic support for the metabolic dysfunction hypothesis. It extends the Naviaux metabolomics findings by showing impaired energy production at the cellular level.
What This Study Does Not Prove
This small study identified mitochondrial dysfunction in a subgroup only. It is unknown whether mitochondrial impairment is a primary feature or secondary to other biological processes in ME/CFS.
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Metadata
- DOI
- 10.1007/s13167-017-0088-2
- Sample size
- 25 patients
- Control group
- Yes
- Review status
- Editor reviewed
- Evidence level
- Single-study or moderate support from human research
- Last updated
- 7 April 2026