Immunoglobulin Secretion in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Abstract

Objectives: Immunoglobulins (Ig) are secreted by activated B cells in response to invading pathogens. The subclasses or isotypes of immunoglobulins are IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG and IgM each of which possesses a specific effector function. The production and secretion of the immunoglobulin isotypes is the main function of the humoral immune system. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) is a complex illness that is characterised by immune impairment. While analysis of some immunoglobulin isotypes has been performed in CFS/ME patients, a comprehensive profile of immunoglobulin secretion has not previously been done. Hence, this study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the secretion of immunoglobulin isotypes in CFS/ME patients in comparison to non-fatigued healthy controls. Methods: Peripheral blood samples were collected from CFS/ME patients and non-fatigued healthy controls in SST tubes. Samples then underwent high speed centrifugation for 10 minutes, with the resulting supernatant being designated as serum. Serum samples were then aliquoted into polypropylene tubes, and if not analysed immediately were frozen at -20°C. The cytometric bead array human immunoglobulin flex set system (BD Biosciences, San Jose, CA), was then used to determine total IgG, IgG2, IgG4, IgM and IgA Flow cytometric analysis was then performed to analyse immunoglobulin secretion. Results: Differential levels of immunoglobulin secretion were observed in CFS/ME patients when compared to HCs. Conclusion: As differential levels of immunoglobulin secretion was observed in CFS/ME this may account for the increased rate of infection that is present in CFS/ME sufferers.