VHIR participates in the first European network on chronic fatigue syndrome

The Chronic Fatigue group at Vall d’Hebron Institute of Research (VHIR) participates in the first European network on myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, called EUROMENE. The network is a new action of the European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) programme, funded by the EU Framework Programme Horizon 2020. Dr. José Alegre and Dr. Jesús Castro from VHIR, and also Dr. Julià Blanco from IrsiCaixa, are the Spanish representatives in this integrative network of European researchers, in which participate at least 8 countries.

The main objective of EUROMENE Consortium is to tackle the research challenges arising from unknown etiology, clinical variability, lack of diagnostic biomarkers and limited treatment options for patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. “The network will be a great opportunity to establish a coordinated plan and attract significant funding for researcher-induced trials on the most promising treatments”, says Dr. Alegre.

Despite the advances in research over the past 20 years, there is a lack of coordination between research groups on this field. The existing research in specialized centers often follows a specific profile of immunological, biochemical or clinical priorities, and common translational approaches could help to delve into the etiology and pathogenesis mechanisms of this syndrome, that still it remains unknown. The network also has the aim to set guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, to study the epidemiology across European countries and to determine its social and economic burden in the society.

The network is built on principles of multidisciplinarity, and will include interaction with patients, stakeholders, and industry looking for translational platforms for new treatment development. The kick off meeting for the EUROMENE will take place on next April 21^st in Brussels, Belgium.