Genetic Research
Genetic research into the causes of MS uses cutting-edge technology and allows researchers to identify the genes that cause or predispose a person to the disease. It will also help science to target new treatment strategies and perhaps isolate the cause.
Three recent large-scale genetic studies uncovered new genetic variations connected with MS, specifically the interleukin-7 receptor alpha, which may lead to impaired immune responses. These findings have led researchers to study the drug daclizumab, also known by the trade name Zenapax, a drug used to prevent kidney transplant rejection. A clinical trial of patients with multiple sclerosis who did not respond to interferon alone found that adding the human antibody daclizumab improved patient outcome.
Essential
Experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) is an animal model of MS, usually studied in mice. It is brought on by artificially triggering the immune system to attack myelin. EAE is not exactly the same as MS, but studies of the various forms of EAE are thought to provide some insight into the nature of MS and potential treatments.
