XMRV: Retrovirus Linked to Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
The XMRV Discovery Series
The discovery of a retrovirus in a major portion of people with either fibromyalgia (FMS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS or ME/CFS) has made big news. (Click here for the story.) But this particular infectious agent has made headlines before -- just last month, when it was linked to some cases of prostate cancer.
The retrovirus is called XMRV. To begin understanding this discovery, let's look at a few key definitions.
XMRV stands for:
- Xenotropic
- Murine leukemia virus
- Related
- Virus
So, essentially, it's a virus related to a virus that causes a type of leukemia.
The term xenotropic means: xeno=foreign, tropic=growth. Basically, these viruses don't replicate or cause problems in their original source, but are a problem in other sources. Some species are naturally resistant, but others are not. This particular virus apparently originated in mice.
A retrovirus is one that inserts its DNA right into your cell's genetic makeup. In cancer, researchers believe tumors result when retrovirus DNA is put next to a gene that regulates cell growth. I don't see anything in the published ME/CFS paper to suggest that scientists know exactly where the DNA is inserted in this condition, but I imagine that will be a major area of exploration as this research continues.
Also See: The XMRV Discovery Series
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Keep it coming. This thing about xMRV is fascinating.
I always give credit where credit is due.
Regards,
Hazel
I read the article, no where does it mention that it tested anyone with fibromyalgia. They only tested sufferers of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. They are NOT the same disease, do some investigating before you spread false rumors.
Lila,
The article you mentioned was the published study, which was just on chronic fatigue syndrome. However, in the news release that went out with the article, in interviews, and on their website, the researchers said that since the study was completed, they’d also tested blood samples from people with fibromyalgia and had found the retrovirus there as well. Here’s more information on that for you: XMRV & Fibromyalgia.
I agree we need to stop making assumptions and wait for more resarch and study results.
Really we aren’t that desperate that we are going to take this ‘one research study’ and change our life styles because of it. For us to assume that we may be transmitting the virus in the ways mentioned is premature and can be very harmful to the emotional well being of some.
Wait before making assumptions and changing your lifestyle. Read the article yourself, don’t rely on someone else’s interpretation.
This is a good sign that research is being done but I’m not changing my lifestyle because of one study that may even be shown to be incorrect by another study. Consider it…..
Personally, I find this research hopeful. Probably the most positive news to come along in a long time. It’s all over the internet, not just in this newletter.
What changes could we possibly make to our lifestyle at this point? This is about about a possible cause. Research is being done. For that I am grateful.
My friends Mom had Fibromyalgia for over 20 years and was diagnosed with Leukemia a few months ago. She lived only 16 days. Do I think it’s only a coincidence? Not really.
I have Fibromyalgia myself. I was diagnosed 8 years ago…I am only 35. I certainly hope they figure this out soon. I don’t want to be a statistic. I have always thought that is was something more. I will pray.