Epigenetics of Post-exertional Malaise in Patients With ME/CFS (NCT04378634) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Epigenetics of Post-exertional Malaise in Patients With ME/CFS
Belgium105 participantsStarted 2021-04-01
Plain-language summary
Exploring epigenetic mechanisms of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is crucial to understand the mechanisms underlying its pathophysiology. Three potential candidates have been selected (BDNF, COMT, and HDAC genes). DNA methylation in the promoter regions of those genes will be explored.
The investigators designed a randomised controlled trial and will enrol 70 patients with ME/CFS and 35 age-, sex-, and BMI-matched healthy controls. Both groups will be randomised in 2 groups and receive either one session of aerobic exercise or a validated test designed to trigger mental stress and mental fatigue. The primary aim is to assess genetic and epigenetic mechanisms of BDNF, COMT and HDAC genes in response to exercise and the stress task.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 70 Years
Sex
FEMALE
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* diagnosis of ME/CFS established by a MD experienced in the field of internal medicine and ME/CFS - according to the published international criteria developed by the Canadian Consensus Criteria (CCC);
* age between 18 and 70 years old;
* body mass index (BMI) below 30 (no obesity).
Exclusion Criteria:
* presence of other neurological disorders (Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis, etc);
* presence of systemic disorders (lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.);
* presence or history of cardiac disorders (coronary heart disease, history of heart failure, etc);
* presence or history of cancer;
* presence or history of neuropathic pain (e.g. pain related to herpes zoster virus);
* pregnancy;
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
DNA methylation
Timeframe: Baseline through 1 week post intervention