Groundbreaking Researcher Akiko Iwasaki Wins First ME/CFS Catalyst Award

Dr. Akiko Iwasaki: A Pioneer in ME/CFS Research

In a remarkable celebration coinciding with World ME Day on May 12, 2025, Dr. Akiko Iwasaki of Yale School of Medicine has been recognized as the inaugural recipient of the ME/CFS Catalyst Award from Solve M.E. This prestigious award aims to fuel critical research into myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and related conditions, investing in essential biomedical investigations that promise to bring hope to millions.

The award is part of a broader initiative to support studies that may otherwise lose momentum due to unpredictable funding cycles. In accepting this award, Dr. Iwasaki will receive critical funding to expand her research titled "Probing Functional Autoantibodies in Patients with ME/CFS." This groundbreaking study will explore the involvement of autoantibodies — immune molecules that mistakenly attack the body’s own tissues — in the debilitating neurological symptoms often experienced by individuals suffering from ME/CFS and Long Covid.

Dr. Iwasaki's work is characterized by its innovative approach and potential to uncover biological markers that could lead to better diagnostics and personalized treatment options for those afflicted by these complex conditions. For her study, Dr. Iwasaki is employing cutting-edge technologies, including a specialized system known as HuProt, enabling the screening of all human proteins to identify specific autoantibodies. This method offers hope of elucidating the connection between immune responses and the frustrating symptoms that commonly plague ME/CFS patients, such as cognitive dysfunction and chronic fatigue.

As Emily Taylor, President and CEO of Solve M.E., stated, the Catalyst Awards were established to address the critical need for urgent scientific advancements. "Dr. Iwasaki is pursuing a bold, high-potential investigation, and we are honored to support her work. Our mission is driven by the patient community, which has long deserved answers, action, and hope," she shared, reflecting the commitment to progress in this field.

Furthermore, Solve M.E. has a rich history of supporting early-career investigators, having previously invested $1.4 million in research efforts through its Ramsay Research Grant Program. The organization has demonstrated a significant return on investment, allowing researchers to attract more funding and advance their studies.

The inaugural Catalyst Award totals over $100,000, sending a strong message about Solve M.E.'s dedication to accelerating scientific breakthroughs in ME/CFS and Long Covid research. This funding will not only aid Dr. Iwasaki's project but also serve as a critical reminder of the importance of patient-driven science in advancing medical research.

For those interested in learning more about Dr. Iwasaki’s study, Solve M.E. will host a free webinar on July 31st, offering insights into the research and its implications for treatment. Registering for this event is an excellent opportunity for patients, medical professionals, and advocates alike to engage with the latest developments in ME/CFS research.

Dr. Akiko Iwasaki’s recognition marks an essential milestone not only for her career but also for the broader scientific community dedicated to understanding conditions like ME/CFS. This award represents a crucial step towards improving the lives of millions who suffer from the debilitating effects of this underfunded and often misunderstood disease. Through continued research and advocacy, there is hope for innovative therapies and solutions to emerge, paving the way for a future where ME/CFS and Long Covid are widely recognized, treated, and manageable.

As the research endeavors continue to unfold, support for organizations like Solve M.E. remains paramount in the fight for understanding and advancements in the treatment of chronic illnesses. Together, the community stands on the brink of change, driven by a shared commitment to uncovering the truths surrounding ME/CFS and Long Covid.