Energy Metabolism

Altered energy metabolism is a candidate mechanism under active investigation in ME/CFS research. Studies report signals suggestive of impaired cellular energy production, altered metabolomics profiles, and elevated oxidative stress markers in patient populations. Metabolomics analyses have identified differences in metabolites associated with the citric acid cycle and amino acid metabolism, though findings are not uniform across cohorts and a specific mitochondrial mechanism has not been established. Cellular energy stress may contribute to the reduced functional capacity seen in ME/CFS; direct mechanistic proof for post-exertional malaise has not been demonstrated.