MS Neighborhood : LINKPeople with multiple sclerosis may have significant differences in certain genes that make them more susceptible to the disease. A new study has found that MS patients have less activity in the so-called FOXP3 gene located in a small group of T-cells.1

A Possible MS Target
This abnormal, quiescent activity in the gene may reflect the suppressed ability of the body to block immune system cells' attack against myelin and the nerve fibers in the central nervous system it protects, say scientists at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland.

"This is an important marker," said lead researcher Arthur Vandenbark, PhD, a professor of Neurology and Molecular Microbiology and Immunology. "This is the first publication that links FOXP3 with reduced suppression in MS."