CFS and FMS Research

Background

Early History of the CPRU

The Bioanalytical Research Group (BRG) was established in 1990 at the University of Newcastle’s Department of Biological Sciences. The founding members saw the need to integrate diverse scientific expertise for developing new biotechnology applicable to the early detection of disease processes.

The most important feature of the group's research capacity is its multi-disciplinary approach. The members of the Biological Sciences Department contribute expertise in biochemistry, immunology, analytical biochemistry, physiology, microbiology, ecology and statistics.

The Newcastle researchers collaborate with other university departments, as well as experts from private medical practice and industry to bring additional expertise in clinical medicine, clinical microbiology and psychology.

In 1992, members of the BRG began working with Dr. Neil McGregor, Professor Iven Klineberg (The University of Sydney) and Dr. Henry Butt (The John Hunter Hospital). In 1993 the BRG ran an intensive research program on chronic pain and fatigue. This collaborative effort was very fruitful, and a separate research unit: "The Collaborative Pain Research Unit" (CPRU) evolved to represent the collective findings of this research and to seek further research funding.

The basis of the collaborative research program revolves around the Cell and Molecular-Profiling (CMP) techniques that the CPRU have developed. The techniques involve making biochemical "snapshots" of the cell material or body fluids. The chemical balance is then assessed in relation to symptom incidence and severity. Changes in the chemical balance can then be associated with specific symptoms that should lead to:

1. Objective methods for diagnosis.
2. Screening procedures for identifying those individuals with a high
susceptibility to pain and fatigue-related disorders.
3. Strategies for clinical management / treatment of pain and fatigue related
conditions.

Years of CPRU Research leads to the formation of Bioscreen

In recent years, CPRU Research has formed the basis of a comprehensive range of tests. These are now available to Australian and international chronic fatigue/pain patients. The testing of samples from overseas was organised very recently (in late 1998).

Newcastle researchers have recently held a number of CFS forums/workshops that were attended by doctors around Australia. The research team has presented some of their findings to a number of groups, heard case histories and promoted discussion by the participants on patient diagnosis and management strategies.

The team has learnt and benefited greatly from these forums. It is understood that the participants have also found them very useful and informative. The CPRU, through its newly formed company “Bioscreen”, would like to continue to promote these forums. Now known as “Bioscreen workshops”, these are designed to facilitate information transfer and to stimulate information networks.

In 1998 the research team organised the very successful Sydney ‘98 International CFS Conference.

Note: It is hoped that the material presented on this page will be included in a new official publication.

© CPRU and F Bartosy 1999

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