Rituximab trial in Japan

Dr Wakiro Sato presented the study plan for a replication trial in Japan of the treatment study using rituximab as a therapy for ME/CFS. In a randomised controlled trial, 30 ME/CFS patients will be divided into two groups and will receive either rituximab first and then a placebo after 24 weeks, or vice versa (crossover design). Particularly comprehensive, exploratory endpoints are planned to test the efficacy and effects of the treatment, including assessments of daily activities, a clinical evaluation, and various biomarkers (e.g. related to the gut microbiome, immune levels, and metabolic values). A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the brain will also be performed.