Scientists around the world have discovered 29 new genetic variants associated with MS (multiple sclerosis). They say their findings should help researchers develop new treatments that specifically target areas of the patient’s immune system. They published their study in the journal Nature.
The study was done by several researchers from around the world and was led by the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, in England. The authors say this is the largest study yet into genes and MS.
This new discovery means that scientists now have over 57 genetic clues to MS.
Genes only play a part in MS risk. Other factors, such as vitamin D levels and viral exposure are also believed to play a role. We know that the further somebody is from the equator, the higher his/her risk is (vitamin D from sunlight may be a factor).
The authors explained that T-cells and interleukins appear to play a major role in the development of MS. T-cells are a type of white blood cell that set off an immune response. Interleukins are chemicals that stimulate the activities and growth of certain kinds of white blood cells.
Co-author, Alastair Compston, from Cambridge University, said:
“We have implicated genes that are highly relevant to the actions of those drugs. It is now clear that multiple sclerosis is primarily an immunological disease. This is the way to nail this disease and get on top of it.”