Muscle Mitochondrial Assessments in Gulf War Illness

We are conducting a new study: Muscle Mitochondrial Assessments in Gulf War Illness. Mitochondria are an important part of your cells that produce energy so your cells function normally. Using muscle biopsy samples, we hope to assess the mitochondrial abnormalities that do and do not characterize Gulf War illness. Muscle biopsies will be performed by skilled, board-certified Dr. Pamela Taub who has had extensive experience doing this procedure. Dr. Taub will numb the area and remove a tiny bit of muscle. The biopsy procedure takes approximately 20-30 minutes, after which you can immediately return to your daily activities.

We are enrolling study participants who meet the following criteria:

1.      Gulf War Veterans: Veterans who participated in the 1990-91 Persian Gulf War and are experiencing symptoms such as (but not limited to) exertional fatigue, muscle pain, and/or muscle weakness.

2.      Matched Healthy Non-Veteran Volunteers: Individuals who are:

a.       At least 39 years old.

b.      Were NOT deployed to the Persian Gulf during the 1990-91 conflict.

Study participation involves up to 3 outpatient visits, to include: a muscle biopsy, blood draws, a respiratory assessment, a light exercise, and health questionnaires. Meals and compensation will be provided upon completion of each visit. A flow chart of the study visits can be found below.

Thank you for your time, we look forward to hearing from you.  

Would you like more information? Click HERE.