The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) received a $415,815 Project Grant award from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (CFDA 93.855 - Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research) to develop humanized microbiota mouse models of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). The project aims to characterize and transplant stool samples from ME/CFS patients and healthy controls into both normal laboratory mice and mice engrafted with a human immune system. The researchers will then evaluate these mice for behavioral changes consistent with ME/CFS, such as exercise intolerance, neurocognitive dysfunction, and sleep disturbances. They will also pathologically examine the gut and brain of these mice to identify changes potentially linked to the altered microbiota in ME/CFS pathophysiology. The goal is to establish an animal model that can be used to conduct ME/CFS research not feasible with human subjects. This 2-year project is scheduled to begin on May 7, 2024 and conclude on March 31, 2026.
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