Test for MS. Lay genetics-Does it confuse?

Lin R, Charlesworth J, van der Mei I, Taylor BV. The genetics of multiple sclerosis.  Pract Neurol. 2012 Oct;12(5):279-88.
 

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Improved prevention and treatment will depend on a greater understanding of the causes and mechanisms involved in its onset and progression. MS is clearly driven by both environmental and genetic factors. Established contributory environmental factors include lower ultraviolet radiation exposure and lower vitamin D levels, Epstein-Barr virus and smoking. Our current understanding of MS genetics is undergoing a major upgrade as new genetic technologies are applied to large MS studies. In this article, we review the current literature describing a genetic contribution to MS susceptibility and review the methods to detect genetic variants that may underlie the genetic contribution to MS. We also consider how reporting of genetic discoveries in MS in the lay press has caused some confusion among patients and their families, who, not surprisingly, think that these discoveries can be translated into an available genetic test to diagnose MS or recognise family members at risk of developing MS. We review the current limited clinical use of genetics in the diagnosis and management of MS.


Does the lay press cause confusion? and Do you think these discoveries can lead to genetic test to diagnose MS or recognise family members at risk of developing MS?

MS is likely caused by a complex interaction between multiple genes and environmental factors, leading to inflammatory-mediated central nervous system deterioration. A series of genomic studies have confirmed a central role for the immune system in the development of MS.

Genetic association studies that have now dramatically expanded the roster of MS susceptibility genes beyond the longstanding human leucocyte antigen (HLA) association in MS first identified nearly 40 years ago. More than 50 non-HLA genetic risk factors associated with MS. However, a large proportion of the disease heritability is still unaccounted for. 

So loads more to do. I know what some of you think?

Knowledge is Power and
You do not know where the next big break will come from 

All genes variants do, is increase risk. THERE IS NO MS GENE IN MY OPINION, it is a combination of normal gene variants that are designed to help us get though life, that in some combinations lead to MS. This is just like some combinations help us avoid the plague.

If you female you are twice as likely as a male to get MS, if you have the HLA gene associated with MS, you are only slightly more at risk than if you don't , the same is the case for each of the rest

Will there be a genetic test that tells you if you are going to get MS...The answer is NO!!!!!! and will always be NO!!!!. 

This is because, if you have 100% identical genes to those found in an Mser there is a 75% chance you will not get MS. Identical Twins studies told us this many, many, years ago.

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