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For decades, there has been evidence that multiple sclerosis has a genetic component. Until now, however, the only genetic association with MS has been with the HLA-DRB1 gene.
A large multinational team conducted a genome-wide association study involving more than 900 “family trios” comprising a patient with MS and both parents. A set of genetic variants associated with the condition was identified. To narrow the search for genetic associations, the team then genotyped another 609 families, 2322 individuals with MS, and 789 control subjects. In addition to the previously demonstrated HLA association, the team identified alleles of the genes for the interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2R) and interleukin-7 receptor that were associated with MS.