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Researchers in Reno find link between retrovirus and neuro-immune disease
Page Last Updated: Thursday October 8, 2009 12:00am PDT
An artist's rendering of the Whittemore Peterson Institute on the University of Nevada, Reno campus. |
Researchers from the Whittemore Peterson Institute, say XMRV-only the third retrovirus known to affect humans-is found in 95 percent of patients with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
The lead researcher, founder and president of the institute, Annette Whittemore said the breakthrough is what they have been hoping for.
"Now we have scientific proof that this infectious agent is a significant factor in ME/CFS," said Whittemore, who is the mother of a ME/CFS patient. "Patients and their doctors will soon have a blood test to verify their diagnosis and provide the answers that they've been seeking."
Many diseases fall into the nuero-immune category, and this discovery could have far-reaching implications for the treatment of patients with fibromyalgia, Epstein Barr Virus, autism and Atypical Multiple Scleroses, according to a spokesperson for the institute.
The landmark study-- conducted by scientists from the Whittemore Peterson Institute in Reno, and their collaborators from the National Cancer Institute and the Cleveland Clinic--was the first to isolate XMRV particles from the blood, and show that it can be transmitted between blood cells.
XMRV is only the third retrovirus to be discovered in humans; the others are HIV and HTLV-1, according to researchers.
Please explore the links on this page for additional information on this topic.
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In the story that aired yesterday about EB, CFS, etc...it was stated that on the website there was information about clinical trials, WHERE?
Would very much like to be involved in treatment trials.
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Home»Community Home»Community Reno»Researchers in Reno find link between retrovirus and neuro-immune disease
PAM B.
October 8, 2009 6:02pm PDT
Mark as Offensive
In Aug, 1997, at the Washoe Med Emergency Room, with very low blood pressure, I was told I had a virus in my spine. What virus? I asked. The doctor said it didn't matter--there was nothing that could be done anyhow. Just rest and I'd be better in 2 weeks. Well, this is October, 2009, and some days I still can't get out of bed. I cannot tell you how excited I am that maybe we're on a road to treatment!
Pam Bickell