Multiple sclerosis risk linked to two gene variants could lead to new tests and therapies

ms

A person unlucky enough to have two specific gene variants is at significantly higher risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS), according to a study.

The research, which gave scientists insight into the processes that cause MS, also suggested that another mutation increased the effects of a known MS risk gene.

The findings could lead to better tests for identifying those at risk of developing MS. This could help doctors monitor and provide early treatment to those affected, the researchers said.

The study, Human Epistatic Interaction Controls IL7R Splicing and Increases Multiple Sclerosis Risk,” was published in the journal Cell.

Diagnosing MS can be a slow process. The team believes their findings can lead to better ways to identify people at risk of MS, and in diagnosing it.

The results also revealed how immune processes can go awry, leading to MS. That insight can advance research aimed at developing better therapies, the team said.

The GLP aggregated and excerpted this blog/article to reflect the diversity of news, opinion, and analysis. Read full, original post: Two Genes Team Up to Increase Risk of Multiple Sclerosis, Study Indicates

For more background on the Genetic Literacy Project, read GLP on Wikipedia.

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