Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Genes & Infection

Patarca-Montero (medicine, microbiology, and immunology, U. of Miami School of Medicine) discusses current research indicating that chronic fatigue syndrome may have an infectious etiology and that genetic factors might determine the body's ability to overcome or become susceptible to a chronic infection. Emphasis is placed on the early T-cell activation-1/osteopontin (Eta-1/Op) gene, a cytokine that offers natural resistance to bacteria, and viruses that may play a role in the suspected link between microbial infections and CFS. Also covered are the historical, clinical, and scientific aspects of Eta-1/Op and its relationship to infectious agents.