Exploring the Autoimmune Dimensions of Fibromyalgia: Deciphering Microbiome, Viral Triggers, and Immunological Patterns to Promote a Patient-Centered Approach

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a debilitating chronic pain disorder with an unknown etiology. The prevalence of FM varies from 0.4% to 8.8%, with a mean estimated global prevalence of 2.7%, with a much higher incidence in women. The disparity between the substantial impact of FM and the limited research attention it receives emphasizes the critical need for increased funding to unravel its complexities. This project seeks to address this gap by investigating the unique interplay among various biomarkers in FM patients. The primary objective is to enhance diagnostic precision and prognostic accuracy, ultimately paving the way for more effective and personalized therapeutic approaches for FM. The goal will be achieved through detection of viral load and activity phase of human herpesviruses 1-7; analysis and characterization of viruses in EVs; evaluation of cytokine level; detection of human Ig classes and subclasses, and autoantibodies against β2AdR and M3/M4 AChRs as well as analysis of stool whole metagenome data. For the first time, the potential existence of viruses in extracellular vesicles (EVs) of FM patients will be explored, shedding light on their role in the development and etiology of FM. The identification of biomarkers through this project will improve diagnostic criteria, will facilitate the implementation of personalized medicine strategies tailored to individual FM patients, contributing to a paradigm shift in the management and treatment of this challenging condition.