Plasmalogen Deficiency, Microglial Activation, and Their Role in ME-CFS and Long COVID

#brain_health #therapy

Summary

Here is a summary from: https://www.healthrising.org/blog/2023/07/24/plasmalogen-chronic-fatigue-syndrome-long-covid/

The article from Health Rising discusses a new hypothesis regarding the overlap between Long Covid symptoms and ME-CFS. Here's a summary of the key points:

1. Researcher Introduction: Dr. Marie-Eve Tremblay, a distinguished Canadian researcher, has joined the research on ME/CFS and long-COVID.

2. New Model: The model suggests that inflammation and microglial activation, which have been discussed for a long time, are combined with a newer factor – plasmalogen deficiency. This research builds upon previous findings, suggesting a coherent understanding of the disease.

3. Microglial Activation: Microglia are immune cells in the brain. The hypothesis suggests that inflammation makes these cells hyperactive, causing them to overreact to minor threats, leading to excessive inflammation.

4. Plasmalogen Deficiency: Plasmalogens are essential components of cell membranes. A deficiency in plasmalogens could damage cell membranes, affecting their function. This deficiency has been observed in several neurodegenerative diseases and might play a significant role in ME/CFS and long COVID.
   See more info here:

5. Peroxisomes: These are cellular structures where plasmalogens are synthesized. The article suggests that oxidative stress might be damaging plasmalogens in ME/CFS, leading to a vicious cycle affecting cellular health.

6. Breakthrough Paper: A study from Ian Lipkin's group tied together findings of plasmalogen deficiency, peroxisome issues, reduced carnitine levels, and impaired mitochondrial function.

7. Immune Exhaustion: There's a suggestion that poor energy production in ME/CFS might be affecting the immune system's ability to respond to threats.

8. Treatment: The article discusses "plasmalogen replacement therapy" (PRT) as a potential treatment. While not yet tested for ME/CFS or long COVID, it's believed to be a promising approach.

   • Plasmalogen Replacement Therapy (PRT):
     • How It Works: This potential treatment aims to boost plasmalogen levels in the body. Plasmalogens protect neurons and glial cells against multiple kinds of injury and might reduce neuroinflammation.
     • Status: Has not yet been tested in ME/CFS or long COVID. The dosage and other specifics are not provided in the article.
     • Note: Current commercial options for PRT are primarily dietary supplements like ProdomeNeuro and ProdomeGlia. Specific PRT treatments in development may not yet be available to the public.
     • More info:
       • https://www.coloradoagelessinstitute.com/plasmalogen-therapy
       • https://optilabs.com.au/pages/plasmalogen-supplements

9. Plasmalogen Supplements: Several supplements are available that claim to boost plasmalogen levels. One such supplement, ProdomeNeuro, is said to be highly potent. However, these supplements can be expensive.

10. Conclusion: The article emphasizes the potential significance of plasmalogens in understanding and treating ME/CFS and long COVID. While it's too early to conclude their effectiveness, the involvement of researchers like Dr. Tremblay makes plasmalogen supplementation an intriguing area of study.

The article concludes by offering readers the opportunity to register for Health Rising's free ME/CFS and Fibromyalgia blog for more in-depth information on the latest research and treatments.

List of Recommended Supplements

• ProdomeNeuro:

  • How It Works: Designed to maximize absorption in the gut, it produces plasmalogens that can cross the blood-brain barrier. This aims to improve nerve functioning at the synapse and cognition.

  • Dosage: The supplement contains 900 mg of omega-3 plasmalogen oil per serving. The exact number of servings per day wasn't specified.

  • URL: https://prodrome.com/products/prodromeneuro-softgel

• ProdomeGlia (Protector Plasmalogen):

  • How It Works: Contains Omega-9 Plasmalogen Oil and is designed to tune the nervous system both inside the brain and in the body.

  • Dosage: The article mentions a recommended 1-3 month loading dose but doesn't specify the exact amount.

  • Note: Dr. Goodenowe recommends up to 12 capsules a day for severe neuroinflammation. However, many people report good effects at 4-6 capsules a day.

  • URL: https://prodrome.com/products/prodromeglia-softgel

• LABO Nutrition NeuroRegain:

  • How It Works: Derived from scallops, this supplement might help in boosting plasmalogen levels, which are essential components of cell membranes.

  • Dosage: The exact dosage wasn't specified in the article.

  • URL: https://www.labonutrition.com/neuroregain-g/

• AKG (Amino Acid Glutamine):

  • How It Works: AKG has been shown in animal studies to increase endogenous plasmalogen levels. Traditionally, AKG is used to increase muscle mass and may help with aging and cognition.

  • Dosage: The exact dosage wasn't specified in the article.

  • URL: https://doublewoodsupplements.com/products/alpha-ketoglutaric-acid-akg

Other Known Supplements

• Apigenin:

  • Common Use: Apigenin is a natural flavonoid commonly found in fruits and vegetables. It's known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties. It's also been studied for its potential neuroprotective effects.

  • Common Dosage: Dosages in studies vary, but supplements often recommend 50mg to 100mg daily.

  • URL: https://www.amazon.com/Swanson-Apigenin-Prostate-Supplements-Capsules/dp/B001TEIJIQ

• PEA (Phenylethylamine):

  • Common Use: PEA is a natural compound that acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain. It's associated with mood elevation and is found in chocolate. It's often taken as a supplement for mood enhancement and cognitive benefits.

  • Common Dosage: Typically, dosages range from 250mg to 500mg daily, but it's essential to start with a lower dose and adjust based on tolerance.

  • URL: https://www.bulksupplements.com/products/phenylethylamine-hcl-pea-powder

• Beta-Caryophyllene:

  • Common Use: Beta-Caryophyllene is a terpene found in various plants, including cannabis. It's known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to bind to CB2 receptors, making it of interest in pain and inflammation research.

  • Common Dosage: Dosages can vary, but many supplements recommend around 100mg to 200mg daily.

  • URL: https://hempfusion.com/products/hempfusion-5-0-liquid/

Sources

• https://www.healthrising.org/blog/2023/07/24/plasmalogen-chronic-fatigue-syndrome-long-covid/
• https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1715117318361981270.html

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9203127/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6804645/