title: Recent advances in genetic analysis of multiple sclerosis: genetic associations and therapeutic implications.
abstract: Epidemiological studies have confirmed that genetic factors are a key component in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) and that those determining MS susceptibility have been extensively studied. Many papers have been published regarding the heritable differences useful in genetic studies; these include variations in DNA, such as single-nucleotide polymorphisms, microsatellites and insertion/deletion polymorphisms. However, to date, among other regions, HLA is the only region confirmed to possess genes that determine MS susceptibility. In this article, we review the progress during the last 5 years in the studies on the susceptibility genes and the pharmacogenetics of MS. Newer techniques and methods of analysis will hopefully result in better screening of individuals who are at highest risk and novel treatments.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurology, Hokkaido University Hospital, Kita-14, Nishi-5, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8648, Japan. niino@med.hokudai.ac.jp
authors.forename: Masaaki
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Niino
authors.forename: Toshiyuki
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Fukazawa
authors.forename: Seiji
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Kikuchi
authors.forename: Hidenao
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Sasaki
mesh_terms: D018390:Gene Targeting / Q000379:methods*; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease / Q000235:genetics; D015316:Genetic Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000235:genetics* / Q000628:therapy*; D009419:Nerve Tissue Proteins / Q000235:genetics*
chemical_list: D009419:Nerve Tissue Proteins