“Curing” Multiple Sclerosis

On July 30, 2007 I reported Time Magazine Reports “New Genes Discovered For MS”. Yesterday I received a letter in the mail from the UCSF Multiple Sclerosis Genetics Group, which I participate in. I was shocked to learn that I am a participant in the study that made the genetic discovery of the MS susceptibility genes: IL-2R a, IL-7R a, and CD58 .

The letter reads as follows:

Dear Study Participant,

We are delighted to write and share with you some newly published scientific results that you may have already read about in the news in recent weeks.

UCSF, in collaboration with the International Multiple Sclerosis Genetic Consortia, has identified a second susceptibility gene for MS. Interleukin -7 Receptor alpha gene (IL-Rα) was identified in two major independent studies carried out by our collaborative group. Also showing significance are the IL-2R α and CD58 genes. These studies were published in the New England Journal of Medicine and Nature Genetics respectively.

While we are very excited with these important and positive steps forward in identifying the causes of MS, it may be too early to use this information to improve diagnoses (such as genetic counseling). Nonetheless, we are most eager to begin translating this new knowledge into understanding and mechanisms by which these genes play a role in someone developing MS and help design better treatments for it.

It is in this true spirit of collaboration that we want to take the opportunity to personally thank you for taking part in these very important studies. Each person’s willingness to take his or her time from very busy lives to complete forms and to donate one or more samples has directly contributed to these important findings. Collectively, we have established the most comprehensive specimen repository in the country which will continue to drive these and future studies.

Whether you are one of the first persons to participate in our studies dating back to the 1980’s or are newer to our group, we gratefully and sincerely say thank you. Together, we will continue our efforts to fight MS.

From all of us in the UCSF MS Research group,

Stephen L. Hauser, M.D.
Professor and Chairman
UCSF Department of Neurology
School of Medicine

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Think positive, join a local MS chapter, meet people with your disease, participate in a clinial study or trial.

You can make a positive difference in your disease – the question is, How?

ADDITIONAL IMMUNOLOGY (IL-2, IL-7, Interleukin) READING:

The Immune System
USMLE Road Map: Immunology
Basic Concepts in Immunology: A Student’s Survival Guide
Psychoneuroimmunology, Two-Volume Set