Unveiled: DNA Discloses Predisposition to Multiple Sclerosis Prior to Symptom Onset
New Study at the University of South Australia Aims to Uncover Early Signs of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
A groundbreaking study at the University of South Australia is set to explore the complex relationship between genetic risk and the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in the development of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The study will employ the innovative "recall by genotype" (RbG) method to group participants based on their genetic risk for MS, with the aim of identifying early biological signs of the disease before symptoms appear.
The RbG method, an Australian-first in MS research, allows researchers to compare immune responses to EBV - a suspected trigger for MS - between high-risk and low-risk genetic groups. This approach could reveal early biomarkers and biological pathways that link genetic susceptibility and the virus to MS onset.
The study will calculate MS genetic risk scores for over 1,000 South Australian participants without an MS diagnosis, then select subsets with high or low genetic risk for detailed analysis. Participants with high genetic risk are expected to exhibit distinct biological differences - especially in their immune response to EBV - even if they have no symptoms. This could inform predictive tools for early MS detection and enable preventive or early intervention strategies.
It is estimated that approximately 90% of the population is affected by the Epstein-Barr virus, and the study hypothesises that it is a likely precursor for MS. By identifying early signs of the disease, the study aims to pave the way for larger investigations and support the development of early diagnostic tools and future preventative strategies for MS.
Moreover, this study will help establish standard operating procedures for participant recall in Australia, potentially setting a new standard for research in the country. The results of this study could transform MS research by shifting from reactive treatment to proactive detection and prevention.
In conclusion, the RbG method offers a powerful way to detect early MS signals and clarify the complex interaction between genetic risk and EBV exposure in disease development. This study promises to provide valuable insights into the early stages of MS and could revolutionise the way we approach and treat this debilitating disease.
[1] University of South Australia. (2022). Recall by Genotype (RbG) Method to Detect Early Signs of MS. Retrieved from https://www.unisa.edu.au/news-and-events/news/2022/news/recall-by-genotype-rbg-method-to-detect-early-signs-of-ms/
[2] Multiple Sclerosis Research Australia. (2022). New Study to Investigate Genetic Risk and Epstein-Barr Virus in MS. Retrieved from https://www.msra.org.au/news/new-study-to-investigate-genetic-risk-and-epstein-barr-virus-in-ms/
[3] The Conversation. (2022). How a new study could help us understand the link between the Epstein-Barr virus and MS. Retrieved from https://theconversation.com/how-a-new-study-could-help-us-understand-the-link-between-the-epstein-barr-virus-and-ms-189146
[4] Medical Xpress. (2022). New Study to Investigate Genetic Risk and Epstein-Barr Virus in MS. Retrieved from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-07-study-investigate-genetic-epstein-barr-virus.html
[5] News Medical Life Sciences. (2022). New Study to Investigate Genetic Risk and Epstein-Barr Virus in MS. Retrieved from https://www.news-medical.net/news/20220706/New-Study-to-Investigate-Genetic-Risk-and-Epstein-Barr-Virus-in-MS.aspx
- This new study at the University of South Australia utilizes the 'recall by genotype' (RbG) method, a significant advancement in neuroscience, to explore the genetic risk and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) connection in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) development.
- The aim of this study is to identify early biomarkers and biological pathways linked to genetic susceptibility and the Epstein-Barr virus, potentially resulting in predictive tools for early MS detection and enabling preventive or early intervention strategies.
- The study's findings could have a profound impact on neurological disorders treatment, shifting from reactive therapies-and-treatments to proactive health-and-wellness approaches for multiple-sclerosis patients.
- By delving into the relationship between genetics, biomarkers, and the brain, this research offers a promising avenue for the future of science and medical-conditions management, especially in the field of neuroscience news.
- The anticipated outcomes of this study could transform our understanding of Multiple Sclerosis and contribute to the development of groundbreaking therapies and treatments, ultimately improving the lives of those affected by this debilitating disease.
