Journal of IiMER May 2025 Professor Hanson’s team investigates how the immune system is altered in people with ME/CFS, focusing on both immune cell metabolism and gene expression. Her group examines how immune cells, such as monocytes and T cells, adjust their metabolic processes in response to activation, and whether these responses are abnormal in ME/CFS. Using advanced techniques like the Seahorse flux analyser and flow cytometry, they study differences in fatty acid metabolism and energy production between ME/CFS patients and healthy controls. Her research also explores changes in gene expression and the content of extracellular vesicles-tiny packages released by cells that carry proteins, RNA, and other molecules-before and after exercise. These studies aim to identify molecular signatures that distinguish ME/CFS and reveal how immune signalling is disrupted, particularly in response to physical stress. In addition, Professor Hanson’s team analyses the gut and blood microbiome to understand their role in immune activation and persistent symptoms. By integrating findings from immune cell metabolism, gene expression, and microbiome studies, her work seeks to clarify the biological mechanisms underlying ME/CFS and to identify potential biomarkers for diagnosis and targets for therapy. Through major NIH-funded projects and collaborations, Professor Hanson’s research is helping to build a clearer picture of the immune abnormalities in ME/CFS, supporting the development of effective treatments and improved clinical care for people with this disabling condition. Session: Orthostatic Intolerance and Autonomic Physiology Session Chair: Jos Bosch, University of Amsterdam, Netherlands / EMERG Dr Bosch, an expert in psychophysiology and ME/CFS cohort research, will chair this session focused on autonomic dysfunction and orthostatic intolerance, which are common in ME/CFS. Linda van Campen, Stichting Cardio Zorg, Netherlands BRMEC14: Cardiac Aspects of Orthostatic Intolerance Dr Linda van Campen is clinician and researcher at Stichting Cardio Zorg in the Netherlands, with extensive experience in the assessment and management of cardiovascular dysfunction in ME/CFS. She has played a leading role in advancing the understanding of orthostatic intolerance-a common and debilitating symptom in ME/CFS patients, characterised by abnormal heart rate and blood pressure responses upon standing. Dr van Campen’s research has contributed to the identification of various forms of orthostatic intolerance in ME/CFS, including postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and orthostatic hypotension. Her work has highlighted the importance of careful cardiovascular assessment in ME/CFS, as these abnormalities can often go unrecognised yet have a major impact on daily functioning and quality of life. At BRMEC14, Dr van Campen will present clinical and research findings on cardiac function in ME/CFS patients experiencing orthostatic intolerance. She will discuss patterns of heart rate and blood pressure abnormalities, their diagnostic value, and implications for patient management. Her talk will also address practical strategies for recognising and treating orthostatic intolerance in ME/CFS, aiming to improve outcomes and provide guidance for clinicians. Invest in ME Research Page 24 of 43
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