Johns Hopkins University
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex chronic illness impacting multiple body systems and characterized by activity-limiting fatigue and post exertional symptom exacerbation, affecting over 3.5 million adults in the US and as many as half of those with long COVID. The mechanisms behind the frequently profound cognitive impairments in MECFS are elusive; however, disruption of the integrity of the blood brain barrier (BBB) and immune cell migration into the brain are thought to contribute to neuroinflammation and related neuropsychiatric burden in MECFS. This project combines brain imaging, neuropsychiatric assessments, and blood-based measures of inflammation in pre-pandemic and post-pandemic individuals with MECFS to understand the role of BBB permeability and inflammation as contributors to key aspects of cognition and mood.
Inclusion Criteria: * Inclusion criteria for pre-pandemic onset ME/CFS cohort: * 18-70 years of age * At least 8th grade education * Onset of the following symptoms prior to July 2019 (Pre-SARS-CoV-2 pandemic) and meeting 2015 IOM diagnostic criteria for MECFS: * Substantial reduction in functioning and persistent and profound fatigue for at least 6 months. The person is unable to undertake the same level of activity before they became - . Their fatigue is not the result of significant exertion and is not substantially alleviated by rest. * Post-exertional malaise. * Unrefreshing sleep * At l…
Arctuva estimate
Actual pay is set by the research site.
Verify or correct the compensation shown for this listing.