Genetics in multiple sclerosis: past and future perspectives.
The enormous development in the field of molecular genetics during the last decades has lead to optimism concerning the possibilities for identifying the causes of multiple sclerosis (MS) through genetic studies. However, we have learned that dense mapping of large sample sets is needed, which only can be achieved through large collaborative studies. The contribution from each yet unidentified gene is probably weaker than that of the well established human leukocyte antigen association. The ultimate goal of the search for susceptibility genes in MS is to develop diagnostic tools and better treatments that can prevent or reduce the development of symptoms of this often devastating disease.
Harbo
H F
HF
Department of Neurology, Ullevål University Hospital, Oslo, Norway. h.f.harbo@medisin.uio.no
Spurkland
A
A
D002874:Chromosome Mapping / Q000592:standards; D004252:DNA Mutational Analysis / Q000592:standards; D019672:Genes, T-Cell Receptor / Q000235:genetics; D005819:Genetic Markers / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease / Q000235:genetics*; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000592:standards; D006680:HLA Antigens / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D015810:Linkage Disequilibrium / Q000235:genetics; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000235:genetics* / Q000276:immunology / Q000503:physiopathology
D005819:Genetic Markers; D006680:HLA Antigens