Discovering Biomarkers in Myasthenia Gravis: Insights into Fatigue, Immune Dysregulation, and Viral Infections

Project/agreement No.

RSU-ZG-2024/1-0036

Project funding

90 000.00 EUR, project No. 5.2.1.1.i.0/2/24/I/CFLA/005 “RSU Internal and RSU with LASE External Consolidation” funded by the European Union Recovery and Resilience Facility and the budget of the Republic of Latvia

Project manager

asoc.prof. Viktorija Ķēniņa

Project realization

01.04.2025. - 31.03.2026.

Aim

The project aims to identify new biomarkers of myasthenia gravis by studying the interactions between immune dysregulation, systemic inflammation, and chronic viral infection reactivation. By integrating in-depth analyses of cytokine profiles, immune system status, and viral activity (e.g., HHV-6/HHV-7), detect mechanisms that promote fatigue development and determine the course of the disease. The project aims to develop a scientific basis for biomarker-based tools that allow early prediction of the course of the disease and control the development of MG-related fatigue, significantly improving patient care.

Description

This project focuses on the persistence and reactivation of chronic viral infections (HHV-6A, HHV-6B, and HHV-7), which, alongside immune dysregulation, significantly influence the severity and progression of myasthenia gravis (MG) and related fatigue. The primary goal is to identify biomarkers of immune activity and viral dynamics to improve disease prediction and fatigue management. The project will assess immune function using QuantiFERON Monitor tests to measure interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) levels following non-specific leukocyte stimulation, identifying patterns of immune dysregulation associated with disease progression and fatigue severity. Advanced PCR and RT-PCR techniques will be applied to quantify viral loads and activity phases for HHV-6A, HHV-6B, and HHV-7. Multiplex cytokine profiling will also measure inflammatory markers, such as IFN-γ, IL-6, and TNF-α, to correlate these biomarkers with clinical symptoms and fatigue severity. This approach aims to identify novel diagnostic and prognostic indicators. The findings will be shared at prominent platforms, including the Baltic Neuro Myology School 2025 and the EAN Congress 2026. Results will also be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and other public outreach events. This project aims to provide valuable insights into MG\'s underlying mechanisms and improve patient clinical outcomes.