SMPDL3B a novel biomarker and therapeutic target in myalgic encephalomyelitis

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Conflicts of Interest

Identified Weaknesses

Rating Explanation

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Paper Summary

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Promising Biomarker for ME Severity: Could SMPDL3B Hold the Key?

This study found that people with ME have lower levels of a protein called SMPDL3B on the outside of their immune cells, and this is linked to more severe symptoms. They suggest this could be because another protein, PI-PLC, breaks down membrane-bound SMPDL3B. Two drugs, vildagliptin and saxagliptin, seemed to help restore membrane-bound SMPDL3B levels in cells, suggesting a potential new treatment avenue.

Possible Conflicts of Interest

Prof. Moreau is Director of the ICanCME Research Network and a member of the Scientific Advisory Board of the Open Medicine Foundation (USA). Dr. Fluge and Pr. Mella are also members of the Scientific Advisory Board of the Open Medicine Foundation. These connections do not necessarily indicate bias but should be noted.

Identified Weaknesses

Sex imbalance in participant groups

This makes it hard to draw definite conclusions about the role of sex in SMPDL3B levels and how this relates to ME.

Cross-sectional study design

This means we don't know if SMPDL3B levels change as the disease progresses.

Study focus limited to PBMCs

This limits the ability to draw broader conclusions about the role of SMPDL3B in the whole body or in other types of immune cells.

Predominantly Caucasian participant groups

The sample lacks diversity, which could mean the results don't apply to everyone with ME.

Rating Explanation

This is a well-designed study with interesting findings about a potential new biomarker and therapeutic target for ME. It uses two independent cohorts, which strengthens the results. However, the limitations regarding sex balance and participant diversity prevent a higher rating.

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