Scientists have identified 48 previously unknown genetic variants that make a person susceptible to developing Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
With these new findings, the now known total of 110 genetic variants associated with MS, can collectively explain approximately 20% of the genetic component of the disease.
The largest genetic investigation of MS to date examined DNA from the blood samples of 80,000 people both with and without MS.
Researchers say these findings mean they are closer to being able to identify the cellular and molecular processes responsible for MS and therefore the specific biological targets for future drug treatment strategies.
Read more at Westmead Millennium Institute for Clinical Research