National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases is a world leading research facility focusing on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Long COVID. NCNED’s research aims to develop a diagnostic test, establish effective pharmacotherapeutics, and transform public health policy.

Our Highlights

Project 1: Investigating Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 3 (TRPM3) Ion Channel Dysfunction in ME/CFS and Long COVID Patients

NCNED has previously found issues with TRPM3 ion channels in ME/CFS patients' immune cells and more recently in Long COVID patients. TRPM3 is a type of protein that plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of ions (charged particles) across cell membranes in various tissues and cells within the body. This project continues to study these ion channel problems to better understand the diseases and potentially find ways to diagnose and treat them.

Project 2: Studying Potential Treatments for ME/CFS and Long COVID

Currently, there are no proven treatments for ME/CFS and Long COVID, although some medications are suggested anecdotally. This project aims to explore the use of medications like low dose naltrexone using lab cell models.

Project 3: Clinical Trial of Low Dose Naltrexone for ME/CFS and Long COVID

NCNED has previously seen improvements in ME/CFS patients using low dose naltrexone. This 12-week clinical trial will investigate how this medication affects ME/CFS and Long COVID patients and will also look at neurological, immunological, and ion channel changes.

Project 4: Longitudinal Study on Quality of Life and Healthcare Services for ME/CFS and Long COVID Patients

This project will examine how ME/CFS and Long COVID affect patients' quality of life over 12 months. It will also look at patients' experiences with healthcare services, as many report negative interactions.

Project 5: Investigating Brain Dysfunction in ME/CFS and Long COVID Using Advanced MRI

The research so far has shown issues in the brainstem and default mode network of ME/CFS and Long COVID patients. This project will use advanced MRI techniques to understand these brain issues better.

All of this research has contributed to important discussions and reports, including inquiries into Long COVID and ME/CFS, clinical guidelines, and raising awareness in parliamentary meetings.