The most complete genetic study to date of multiple sclerosis singles out a cluster of genes on chromosome 6 as the only group to play a significant role in MS.


These findings, presented today at the annual meeting of the American Neurological Association, may constitute a turning point in the quest for an MS gene, according to principal investigator Jonathan Haines, Ph.D.


"No other region of the genome harbors a gene with a similar overall influence on MS genetics," said Dr. Haines in an oral presentation of the study. Dr. Haines is director of the Human Genetics Program at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn.


The genes that show so much promise are the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes, a cluster that enables the body to distinguish autologous cells from bacteria or other pathogens. When the MHC system is impaired, the body can develop antibodies against autologous cells, as in MS. An interaction between a variation in the MHC system and environmental challenges are the likely cause of MS, he said.{CLICK FOR MORE} CME Teaching Brief - MedPage Today