1
|
Mascia E, Nale V, Ferrè L, Sorosina M, Clarelli F, Chiodi A, Santoro S, Giordano A, Misra K, Cannizzaro M, Moiola L, Martinelli V, Milanesi L, Filippi M, Mosca E, Esposito F. Genetic Contribution to Medium-Term Disease Activity in Multiple Sclerosis. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04264-8. [PMID: 38850349 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04264-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex disorder characterized by high heterogeneity in terms of phenotypic expression, prognosis and treatment response. In the present study, we aimed to explore the genetic contribution to MS disease activity at different levels: genes, pathways and tissue-specific networks. Two cohorts of relapsing-remitting MS patients who started a first-line treatment (n = 1294) were enrolled to evaluate the genetic association with disease activity after 4 years of follow-up. The analyses were performed at whole-genome SNP and gene level, followed by the construction of gene-gene interaction networks specific for brain and lymphocytes. The resulting gene modules were evaluated to highlight key players from a topological and functional perspective. We identified 23 variants and 223 genes with suggestive association to 4-years disease activity, highlighting genes like PON2 involved in oxidative stress and in mitochondria functions and other genes, like ILRUN, involved in the modulation of the immune system. Network analyses led to the identification of a brain module composed of 228 genes and a lymphocytes module composed of 287 genes. The network analysis allowed us to prioritize genes relevant for their topological properties; among them, there are MPHOSPH9 (connector hub in both brain and lymphocyte module) and OPA1 (in brain module), two genes already implicated in MS. Modules showed the enrichment of both shared and tissue-specific pathways, mainly implicated in inflammation. In conclusion, our results suggest that the processes underlying disease activity act on shared mechanisms across brain and lymphocyte tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Mascia
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Nale
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, Italy
| | - Laura Ferrè
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Melissa Sorosina
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Clarelli
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alice Chiodi
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, Italy
| | - Silvia Santoro
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonino Giordano
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Kaalindi Misra
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Miryam Cannizzaro
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Lucia Moiola
- Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Vittorio Martinelli
- Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Luciano Milanesi
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, Italy
| | - Massimo Filippi
- Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Neurophysiology Service, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Ettore Mosca
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Segrate, Italy
| | - Federica Esposito
- Laboratory of Human Genetics of Neurological Disorders, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
- Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Siddiqui A, Yang JH, Hua LH, Graves JS. Clinical and Treatment Considerations for the Pediatric and Aging Patients with Multiple Sclerosis. Neurol Clin 2024; 42:255-274. [PMID: 37980118 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2023.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Chronologic aging is associated with multiple pathologic and immunologic changes that impact the clinical course of multiple sclerosis (MS). Clinical phenotypes evolve across the lifespan, from a highly inflammatory course in the very young to a predominantly neurodegenerative phenotype in older patients. Thus, unique clinical considerations arise for the diagnosis and management of the two age extremes of pediatric and geriatric MS populations. This review covers epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for these populations with nuanced discussions on therapeutic approaches to effectively care for patients living with MS at critical transition points during their lifespan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Areeba Siddiqui
- Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, 888 W. Bonneville Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89106, USA
| | - Jennifer H Yang
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Mail Code 0662, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Division of Pediatric Neurology, Rady Children's Hospital, 3020 Children's Way MC 5009, San Diego, CA 92123, USA
| | - Le H Hua
- Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, 888 W. Bonneville Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89106, USA.
| | - Jennifer S Graves
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Mail Code 0662, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Division of Pediatric Neurology, Rady Children's Hospital, 3020 Children's Way MC 5009, San Diego, CA 92123, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Abdel-Mannan O, Hacohen Y. Pediatric inflammatory leukoencephalopathies. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2024; 204:369-398. [PMID: 39322390 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-99209-1.00001-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
Acquired demyelinating syndromes (ADS) represent acute neurologic illnesses characterized by deficits persisting for at least 24hours and involving the optic nerve, brain, or spinal cord, associated with regional areas of increased signal on T2-weighted images. In children, ADS may occur as a monophasic illness or as a relapsing condition, such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). Almost all young people with MS have a relapsing-remitting course with clinical relapses. Important strides have been made in delineating MS from other ADS subtypes. Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) and aquaporin 4-antibody-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (AQP4-NMOSD) were once considered variants of MS; however, studies in the last decade have established that these are in fact distinct entities. Although there are clinical phenotypic overlaps between MOGAD, AQP4-NMOSD, and MS, cumulative biologic, clinical, and pathologic evidence allows discrimination between these conditions. There has been a rapid increase in the number of available disease-modifying therapies for MS and novel treatment strategies are starting to appear for both MOGAD and AQP4-NMOSD. Importantly, there are a number of both inflammatory and noninflammatory mimics of ADS in children with implications of management for these patients in terms of treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omar Abdel-Mannan
- Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square MS Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom; Department of Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Yael Hacohen
- Department of Neuroinflammation, Queen Square MS Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom; Department of Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fuh-Ngwa V, Charlesworth JC, Zhou Y, van der Mei I, Melton PE, Broadley SA, Ponsonby AL, Simpson-Yap S, Lechner-Scott J, Taylor BV. The association between disability progression, relapses, and treatment in early relapse onset MS: an observational, multi-centre, longitudinal cohort study. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11584. [PMID: 37463930 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38415-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The indirect contribution of multiple sclerosis (MS) relapses to disability worsening outcomes, and vice-versa, remains unclear. Disease modifying therapies (DMTs) are potential modulators of this association. Understanding how these endo-phenotypes interact may provide insights into disease pathogenesis and treatment practice in relapse-onset MS (ROMS). Utilising a unique, prospectively collected clinical data from a longitudinal cohort of 279 first demyelinating event cases followed for up to 15 years post-onset, we examined indirect associations between relapses and treatment and the risk of disability worsening, and vice-versa. Indirect association parameters were estimated using joint models for longitudinal and survival data. Early relapses within 2.5 years of MS onset predicted early disability worsening outcomes (HR = 3.45, C.I 2.29-3.61) per relapse, but did not contribute to long-term disability worsening thereinafter (HR = 0.21, C.I 0.15-0.28). Conversely, disability worsening outcomes significantly contributed to relapse risk each year (HR = 2.96, C.I 2.91-3.02), and persisted over time (HR = 3.34, C.I 2.90-3.86), regardless of DMT treatments. The duration of DMTs significantly reduced the hazards of relapses (1st-line DMTs: HR = 0.68, C.I 0.58-0.79; 3rd-line DMTs: HR = 0.37, C.I 0.32-0.44) and disability worsening events (1st-line DMTs: HR = 0.74, C.I 0.69-0.79; 3rd-line DMTs: HR = 0.90, C.I 0.85-0.95), respectively. Results from time-dynamic survival probabilities further revealed individuals having higher risk of future relapses and disability worsening outcomes, respectively. The study provided evidence that in ROMS, relapses accrued within 2.5 years of MS onset are strong indicators of disability worsening outcomes, but late relapses accrued 2.5 years post onset are not overt risk factors for further disability worsening. In contrast, disability worsening outcomes are strong positive predictors of current and subsequent relapse risk. Long-term DMT use and older age strongly influence the individual outcomes and their associations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valery Fuh-Ngwa
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS, 7000, Australia.
| | - Jac C Charlesworth
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS, 7000, Australia
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS, 7000, Australia
| | - Ingrid van der Mei
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS, 7000, Australia
| | - Phillip E Melton
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS, 7000, Australia
| | - Simon A Broadley
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland and School of Medicine, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, 4222, Australia
| | - Anne-Louise Ponsonby
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Steve Simpson-Yap
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS, 7000, Australia
- Neuroepidemiology Unit, Center for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The University of Melbourne School of Population & Global Health, Melbourne, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Jeannette Lechner-Scott
- School of Medicine and Public Health New Lambton, Hunter New England Health, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
- Department of Neurology, The University of Newcastle Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Bruce V Taylor
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS, 7000, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Drake SS, Zaman A, Simas T, Fournier AE. Comparing RNA-sequencing datasets from astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia in multiple sclerosis identifies novel dysregulated genes relevant to inflammation and myelination. WIREs Mech Dis 2023; 15:e1594. [PMID: 36600404 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) inflammation is a key factor in multiple sclerosis (MS). Invasion of peripheral immune cells into the CNS resulting from an unknown signal or combination of signals results in activation of resident immune cells and the hallmark feature of the disease: demyelinating lesions. These lesion sites are an amalgam of reactive peripheral and central immune cells, astrocytes, damaged and dying oligodendrocytes, and injured neurons and axons. Sustained inflammation affects cells directly located within the lesion site and further abnormalities are apparent diffusely throughout normal-appearing white matter and grey matter. It is only relatively recently, using animal models, new tissue sampling techniques, and next-generation sequencing, that molecular changes occurring in CNS resident cells have been broadly captured. Advances in cell isolation through Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting (FACS) and laser-capture microdissection together with the emergence of single-cell sequencing have enabled researchers to investigate changes in gene expression in astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocytes derived from animal models of MS as well as from primary patient tissue. The contribution of some dysregulated pathways has been followed up in individual studies; however, corroborating results often go unreported between sequencing studies. To this end, we have consolidated results from numerous RNA-sequencing studies to identify and review novel patterns of differentially regulated genes and pathways occurring within CNS glial cells in MS. This article is categorized under: Neurological Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sienna S Drake
- McGill University, Montreal Neurological Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Aliyah Zaman
- McGill University, Montreal Neurological Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Tristan Simas
- McGill University, Montreal Neurological Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alyson E Fournier
- McGill University, Montreal Neurological Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Fuh-Ngwa V, Zhou Y, Melton PE, van der Mei I, Charlesworth JC, Lin X, Zarghami A, Broadley SA, Ponsonby AL, Simpson-Yap S, Lechner-Scott J, Taylor BV. Ensemble machine learning identifies genetic loci associated with future worsening of disability in people with multiple sclerosis. Sci Rep 2022; 12:19291. [PMID: 36369345 PMCID: PMC9652373 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-23685-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Limited studies have been conducted to identify and validate multiple sclerosis (MS) genetic loci associated with disability progression. We aimed to identify MS genetic loci associated with worsening of disability over time, and to develop and validate ensemble genetic learning model(s) to identify people with MS (PwMS) at risk of future worsening. We examined associations of 208 previously established MS genetic loci with the risk of worsening of disability; we learned ensemble genetic decision rules and validated the predictions in an external dataset. We found 7 genetic loci (rs7731626: HR 0.92, P = 2.4 × 10-5; rs12211604: HR 1.16, P = 3.2 × 10-7; rs55858457: HR 0.93, P = 3.7 × 10-7; rs10271373: HR 0.90, P = 1.1 × 10-7; rs11256593: HR 1.13, P = 5.1 × 10-57; rs12588969: HR = 1.10, P = 2.1 × 10-10; rs1465697: HR 1.09, P = 1.7 × 10-128) associated with risk worsening of disability; most of which were located near or tagged to 13 genomic regions enriched in peptide hormones and steroids biosynthesis pathways by positional and eQTL mapping. The derived ensembles produced a set of genetic decision rules that can be translated to provide additional prognostic values to existing clinical predictions, with the additional benefit of incorporating relevant genetic information into clinical decision making for PwMS. The present study extends our knowledge of MS progression genetics and provides the basis of future studies regarding the functional significance of the identified loci.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valery Fuh-Ngwa
- grid.1009.80000 0004 1936 826XMenzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS 7000 Australia
| | - Yuan Zhou
- grid.1009.80000 0004 1936 826XMenzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS 7000 Australia
| | - Phillip E. Melton
- grid.1009.80000 0004 1936 826XMenzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS 7000 Australia
| | - Ingrid van der Mei
- grid.1009.80000 0004 1936 826XMenzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS 7000 Australia
| | - Jac C. Charlesworth
- grid.1009.80000 0004 1936 826XMenzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS 7000 Australia
| | - Xin Lin
- grid.1009.80000 0004 1936 826XMenzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS 7000 Australia
| | - Amin Zarghami
- grid.1009.80000 0004 1936 826XMenzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS 7000 Australia
| | - Simon A. Broadley
- grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Menzies Health Institute Queensland and School of Medicine, Griffith University Gold Coast, G40 Griffith Health Centre, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - Anne-Louise Ponsonby
- grid.1058.c0000 0000 9442 535XDeveloping Brain Division, The Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Children’s Hospital, University of Melbourne Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, VIC 3052 Australia
| | - Steve Simpson-Yap
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XNeuroepidemiology Unit, Melbourne School of Population & Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3053 Australia
| | - Jeannette Lechner-Scott
- grid.266842.c0000 0000 8831 109XDepartment of Neurology, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Hunter New England Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2310 Australia
| | - Bruce V. Taylor
- grid.1009.80000 0004 1936 826XMenzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS 7000 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jacobs BM, Peter M, Giovannoni G, Noyce AJ, Morris HR, Dobson R. Towards a global view of multiple sclerosis genetics. Nat Rev Neurol 2022; 18:613-623. [PMID: 36075979 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-022-00704-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neuroimmunological disorder of the CNS with a strong heritable component. The genetic architecture of MS susceptibility is well understood in populations of European ancestry. However, the extent to which this architecture explains MS susceptibility in populations of non-European ancestry remains unclear. In this Perspective article, we outline the scientific arguments for studying MS genetics in ancestrally diverse populations. We argue that this approach is likely to yield insights that could benefit individuals with MS from all ancestral groups. We explore the logistical and theoretical challenges that have held back this field to date and conclude that, despite these challenges, inclusion of participants of non-European ancestry in MS genetics studies will ultimately be of value to all patients with MS worldwide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Meir Jacobs
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University London, London, UK. .,Department of Neurology, Royal London Hospital, London, UK.
| | - Michelle Peter
- NHS North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Gavin Giovannoni
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University London, London, UK.,Department of Neurology, Royal London Hospital, London, UK.,Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University London, London, UK
| | - Alastair J Noyce
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University London, London, UK.,Department of Neurology, Royal London Hospital, London, UK.,Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Huw R Morris
- Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ruth Dobson
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University London, London, UK.,Department of Neurology, Royal London Hospital, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Goris A, Vandebergh M, McCauley JL, Saarela J, Cotsapas C. Genetics of multiple sclerosis: lessons from polygenicity. Lancet Neurol 2022; 21:830-842. [PMID: 35963264 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(22)00255-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Large-scale mapping studies have identified 236 independent genetic variants associated with an increased risk of multiple sclerosis. However, none of these variants are found exclusively in patients with multiple sclerosis. They are located throughout the genome, including 32 independent variants in the MHC and one on the X chromosome. Most variants are non-coding and seem to act through cell-specific effects on gene expression and splicing. The likely functions of these variants implicate both adaptive and innate immune cells in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis, provide pivotal biological insight into the causes and mechanisms of multiple sclerosis, and some of the variants implicated in multiple sclerosis also mediate risk of other autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Genetics offers an approach to showing causality for environmental factors, through Mendelian randomisation. No single variant is necessary or sufficient to cause multiple sclerosis; instead, each increases total risk in an additive manner. This combined contribution from many genetic factors to disease risk, or polygenicity, has important consequences for how we interpret the epidemiology of multiple sclerosis and how we counsel patients on risk and prognosis. Ongoing efforts are focused on increasing cohort sizes, increasing diversity and detailed characterisation of study populations, and translating these associations into an understanding of the biology of multiple sclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- An Goris
- KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, Department of Neurosciences, Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Marijne Vandebergh
- KU Leuven, Leuven Brain Institute, Department of Neurosciences, Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jacob L McCauley
- John P Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Janna Saarela
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland and Department of Clinical Genetics, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Chris Cotsapas
- Departments of Neurology and Genetics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Genetics and functional genomics of multiple sclerosis. Semin Immunopathol 2022; 44:63-79. [PMID: 35022889 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-021-00907-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory neurodegenerative disease with genetic predisposition. Over the last decade, genome-wide association studies with increasing sample size led to the discovery of robustly associated genetic variants at an exponential rate. More than 200 genetic loci have been associated with MS susceptibility and almost half of its heritability can be accounted for. However, many challenges and unknowns remain. Definitive studies of disease progression and endophenotypes are yet to be performed, whereas the majority of the identified MS variants are not yet functionally characterized. Despite these shortcomings, the unraveling of MS genetics has opened up a new chapter on our understanding MS causal mechanisms.
Collapse
|
10
|
Chow HH, Talbot J, Marstrand L, Lundell H, Roman Siebner H, Bach Søndergaard H, Sellebjerg F. Smoking, cardiovascular risk factors and LRP2 gene variation: Associations with disease severity, cognitive function and brain structure in primary progressive multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2021; 56:103296. [PMID: 34678704 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2021.103296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Smoking, cardiovascular risk factors, and genetic factors can have adverse effects in MS. OBJECTIVE To determine if smoking after disease onset, cardiovascular risk factors, and genetic variants influence primary progressive MS (PPMS). METHOD In this cross-sectional study, smoking habits, Framingham Risk Score (FRS), genetic variants, including the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 2 (LRP2) SNP rs12988804 and MRI were collected in 60 PPMS trial participants. Disability and cognition were assessed with the Age-Related Multiple Sclerosis Severity (ARMSS) score, the Progressive-Onset MS Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score, and the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for MS. RESULTS Smoking after PPMS onset was significantly associated with higher ARMSS (95% CI 0.8-2.4, p = 0.00016) statistically significant after Bonferroni correction. Lower magnetization transfer ratio in lesions was also significantly associated with smoking after onset of PPMS after correction (95% CI -0.9--4.4, p = 0.0035). Pack-years in people who smoked after onset was likewise significantly associated with higher ARMSS score (b = 0.06 95% CI 0.02-0.09, p = 0.0021) as well as lower Symbol Digit Modalities Test scores (b = -0.40; 95% CI -0.66--0.13, p = 0.0037), both statistically significant after Bonferroni correction. The LRP2 risk allele was associated with decreased performance on the California Verbal Learning Test 2 after correction (CC vs. CT+TT 95% CI -14.2--3.4, p = 0.0018). CONCLUSION If validated, these findings suggest that intervention regarding smoking may be beneficial in PPMS. If confirmed, assessment of the LRP2 gene variant may aid in the understanding of underlying pathological mechanisms in PPMS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helene Højsgaard Chow
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Nordre Ringevej, 57 2600 Glostrup, Denmark.
| | - Jacob Talbot
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Nordre Ringevej, 57 2600 Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Lisbet Marstrand
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Nordre Ringevej, 57 2600 Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Henrik Lundell
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Copenhagen University Hospital-Hvidovre, Kettegård Alle 30 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Hartwig Roman Siebner
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Copenhagen University Hospital-Hvidovre, Kettegård Alle 30 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark; Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg, Bispebjerg Bakke 23 2400 Copenhagen, Denmark; Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B 2200 Copenhagen N Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Helle Bach Søndergaard
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Nordre Ringevej, 57 2600 Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Finn Sellebjerg
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Center, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Nordre Ringevej, 57 2600 Glostrup, Denmark; Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital Bispebjerg, Bispebjerg Bakke 23 2400 Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Made to Measure: Patient-Tailored Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis Using Cell-Based Therapies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147536. [PMID: 34299154 PMCID: PMC8304207 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, there is still no cure for multiple sclerosis (MS), which is an autoimmune and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system. Treatment options predominantly consist of drugs that affect adaptive immunity and lead to a reduction of the inflammatory disease activity. A broad range of possible cell-based therapeutic options are being explored in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, including MS. This review aims to provide an overview of recent and future advances in the development of cell-based treatment options for the induction of tolerance in MS. Here, we will focus on haematopoietic stem cells, mesenchymal stromal cells, regulatory T cells and dendritic cells. We will also focus on less familiar cell types that are used in cell therapy, including B cells, natural killer cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. We will address key issues regarding the depicted therapies and highlight the major challenges that lie ahead to successfully reverse autoimmune diseases, such as MS, while minimising the side effects. Although cell-based therapies are well known and used in the treatment of several cancers, cell-based treatment options hold promise for the future treatment of autoimmune diseases in general, and MS in particular.
Collapse
|
12
|
Vandebergh M, Andlauer TFM, Zhou Y, Mallants K, Held F, Aly L, Taylor BV, Hemmer B, Dubois B, Goris A. Genetic Variation in WNT9B Increases Relapse Hazard in Multiple Sclerosis. Ann Neurol 2021; 89:884-894. [PMID: 33704824 PMCID: PMC8252032 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many multiple sclerosis (MS) genetic susceptibility variants have been identified, but understanding disease heterogeneity remains a key challenge. Relapses are a core feature of MS and a common primary outcome of clinical trials, with prevention of relapses benefiting patients immediately and potentially limiting long-term disability accrual. We aim to identify genetic variation associated with relapse hazard in MS by analyzing the largest study population to date. METHODS We performed a genomewide association study (GWAS) in a discovery cohort and investigated the genomewide significant variants in a replication cohort. Combining both cohorts, we captured a total of 2,231 relapses occurring before the start of any immunomodulatory treatment in 991 patients. For assessing time to relapse, we applied a survival analysis utilizing Cox proportional hazards models. We also investigated the association between MS genetic risk scores and relapse hazard and performed a gene ontology pathway analysis. RESULTS The low-frequency genetic variant rs11871306 within WNT9B reached genomewide significance in predicting relapse hazard and replicated (meta-analysis hazard ratio (HR) = 2.15, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.70-2.78, p = 2.07 × 10-10 ). A pathway analysis identified an association of the pathway "response to vitamin D" with relapse hazard (p = 4.33 × 10-6 ). The MS genetic risk scores, however, were not associated with relapse hazard. INTERPRETATION Genetic factors underlying disease heterogeneity differ from variants associated with MS susceptibility. Our findings imply that genetic variation within the Wnt signaling and vitamin D pathways contributes to differences in relapse occurrence. The present study highlights these cross-talking pathways as potential modulators of MS disease activity. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:884-894.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marijne Vandebergh
- Department of Neurosciences, Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Till F M Andlauer
- Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Klara Mallants
- Department of Neurosciences, Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Friederike Held
- Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Lilian Aly
- Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Bruce V Taylor
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Bernhard Hemmer
- Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Bénédicte Dubois
- Department of Neurosciences, Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - An Goris
- Department of Neurosciences, Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Leuven Brain Institute, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Waubant E, Lucas R, Mowry E, Graves J, Olsson T, Alfredsson L, Langer‐Gould A. Environmental and genetic risk factors for MS: an integrated review. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2019; 6:1905-1922. [PMID: 31392849 PMCID: PMC6764632 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.50862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent findings have provided a molecular basis for the combined contributions of multifaceted risk factors for the onset of multiple sclerosis (MS). MS appears to start as a chronic dysregulation of immune homeostasis resulting from complex interactions between genetic predispositions, infectious exposures, and factors that lead to pro-inflammatory states, including smoking, obesity, and low sun exposure. This is supported by the discovery of gene-environment (GxE) interactions and epigenetic alterations triggered by environmental exposures in individuals with particular genetic make-ups. It is notable that several of these pro-inflammatory factors have not emerged as strong prognostic indicators. Biological processes at play during the relapsing phase of the disease may result from initial inflammatory-mediated injury, while risk factors for the later phase of MS, which is weighted toward neurodegeneration, are not yet well defined. This integrated review of current evidence guides recommendations for clinical practice and highlights research gaps.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Robyn Lucas
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population HealthAustralian National UniversityCanberraAustralia
| | - Ellen Mowry
- Department of Neurology and EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMaryland
| | | | - Tomas Olsson
- Department of NeurologyKarolinska Institutet, Department of Clinical NeuroscienceStockholmSweden
| | - Lars Alfredsson
- Department of EpidemiologyInstitute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
| | - Annette Langer‐Gould
- Clinical & Translational NeuroscienceKaiser Permanente/Southern California Permanente Medical GroupLos AngelesCalifornia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhang Y, Zhou Y, van der Mei IAF, Simpson S, Ponsonby AL, Lucas RM, Tettey P, Charlesworth J, Kostner K, Taylor BV. Lipid-related genetic polymorphisms significantly modulate the association between lipids and disability progression in multiple sclerosis. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2019; 90:636-641. [PMID: 30782980 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2018-319870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Revised: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether lipid-related or body mass index (BMI)-related common genetic polymorphisms modulate the associations between serum lipid levels, BMI and disability progression in multiple sclerosis (MS). METHODS The association between disability progression (annualised Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) change over 5 years, ΔEDSS) and lipid-related or BMI-related genetic polymorphisms was evaluated in a longitudinal cohort (n=184), diagnosed with MS. We constructed a cumulative genetic risk score (CGRS) of associated polymorphisms (p<0.05) and examined the interactions between the CGRS and lipid levels (measured at baseline) in predicting ΔEDSS. All analyses were conducted using linear regression. RESULTS Five lipid polymorphisms (rs2013208, rs9488822, rs17173637, rs10401969 and rs2277862) and one BMI polymorphism (rs2033529) were nominally associated with ΔEDSS. The constructed lipid CGRS showed a significant, dose-dependent association with ΔEDSS (ptrend=1.4×10-6), such that participants having ≥6 risk alleles progressed 0.38 EDSS points per year faster compared with those having ≤3. This CGRS model explained 16% of the variance in ΔEDSS. We also found significant interactions between the CGRS and lipid levels in modulating ΔEDSS, including high-density lipoprotein (HDL; pinteraction=0.005) and total cholesterol:high-density lipoprotein ratio (TC:HDL; pinteraction=0.030). The combined model (combination of CGRS and the lipid parameter) explained 26% of the disability variance for HDL and 27% for TC:HDL. INTERPRETATION In this prospective cohort study, both lipid levels and lipid-related polymorphisms individually and jointly were associated with significantly increased disability progression in MS. These results indicate that these polymorphisms and tagged genes might be potential points of intervention to moderate disability progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Ingrid A F van der Mei
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Steve Simpson
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.,Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anne-Louise Ponsonby
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robyn M Lucas
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, College of Medicine, Biology and Environment, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Prudence Tettey
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.,School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Jac Charlesworth
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Karam Kostner
- Mater Hospital, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Bruce V Taylor
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Pytel V, Matías-Guiu JA, Torre-Fuentes L, Montero-Escribano P, Maietta P, Botet J, Álvarez S, Gómez-Pinedo U, Matías-Guiu J. Exonic variants of genes related to the vitamin D signaling pathway in the families of familial multiple sclerosis using whole-exome next generation sequencing. Brain Behav 2019; 9:e01272. [PMID: 30900415 PMCID: PMC6456803 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vitamin D (VD) deficiency has been associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) and other autoimmune diseases (AIDs). However, the effect of the genetics of VD on the risk of MS is subject to debate. This study focuses on genes linked to the VD signaling pathway in families with MS. The evaluation of gene variants in all the members of families could contribute to an additional knowledge on the information obtained from case-control studies that use nonrelated healthy people. MATERIAL AND METHODS We studied 94 individuals from 15 families including at least two patients with MS. We performed whole-exome next generation sequencing on all individuals and analyzed variants of the DHCR7, CYP2R1, CYP3A4, CYP27A1, GC, CYP27B1, LRP2, CUBN, DAB2, FCGR, RXR, VDR, CYP24A1, and PDIA3 genes. We also studied PTH, FGF23, METTL1, METTL21B, and the role of the linkage disequilibrium block on the long arm of chromosome 12, through analysis of the CDK4, TSFM, AGAP2, and AVIL genes. We compared patients with MS, other AIDs and unaffected members from different family types. RESULTS The study described the variants in the VD signaling pathway that appear in families with at least two patients with MS. Some infrequent variants were detected in these families, but no significant difference was observed between patients with MS and/or other AIDs and unaffected family members in the frequency of these variants. Variants previously associated with MS in the literature were not observed in these families or were distributed similarly in patients and unaffected family members. CONCLUSION The study of genes involved in the VD signaling pathway in families that include more than one patient with MS did not identify any variants that could explain the presence of the disease, suggesting that VD metabolism could probably play a role in MS more as an environmental factor rather than as a genetic factor. Our study also supports the analysis of cases and unaffected individuals within families in order to determine the influence of genetic factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa Pytel
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurosciences, IdISSC, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Institute of Neurosciences, IdISSC, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jordi A Matías-Guiu
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurosciences, IdISSC, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Torre-Fuentes
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Institute of Neurosciences, IdISSC, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paloma Montero-Escribano
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurosciences, IdISSC, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Ulises Gómez-Pinedo
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Institute of Neurosciences, IdISSC, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Matías-Guiu
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Neurosciences, IdISSC, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Institute of Neurosciences, IdISSC, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune disorder, affects the central nervous system (CNS). It affects the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerve, leading to problems with vision, balance, muscle control, and other basic bodily functions. MS relapse (MSR) involves an acute inflammatory demyelinating reaction within the CNS. This review focuses on the main factors involved in MSR based on a detailed literature search. Evidence suggests that MSR is influenced by age, sex, pregnancy, serum levels of Vitamin D, interactions between genetic and environmental factors, and infectious diseases. Many of these factors are modifiable and require the attention of patients and health-care providers if favorable outcomes are to be realized. Identification of MSR risk factors can help in the development of therapies that could be used to manage MS and MSR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemah Omar Kamel
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Jokubaitis VG, Zhou Y, Butzkueven H, Taylor BV. Genotype and Phenotype in Multiple Sclerosis-Potential for Disease Course Prediction? Curr Treat Options Neurol 2018; 20:18. [PMID: 29687310 DOI: 10.1007/s11940-018-0505-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review will examine the current evidence that genetic and/or epigenetic variation may influence the multiple sclerosis (MS) clinical course, phenotype, and measures of MS severity including disability progression and relapse rate. RECENT FINDINGS There is little evidence that MS clinical phenotype is under significant genetic control. There is increasing evidence that there may be genetic determinants of the rate of disability progression. However, studies that can analyse disability progression and take into account all the confounding variables such as treatment, clinical characteristics, and environmental factors are by necessity longitudinal, relatively small, and generally of short duration, and thus do not lend themselves to the assessment of hundreds of thousands of genetic variables obtained from GWAS. Despite this, there is recent evidence to support the association of genetic loci with relapse rate. Recent progress suggests that genetic variations could be associated with disease severity, but not MS clinical phenotype, but these findings are not definitive and await replication. Pooling of study results, application of other genomic techniques including epigenomics, and analysis of biomarkers of progression could functionally validate putative severity markers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vilija G Jokubaitis
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medicine and Melbourne Brain Centre at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Australia
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Helmut Butzkueven
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medicine and Melbourne Brain Centre at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Box Hill Hospital, Box Hill, Australia
| | - Bruce V Taylor
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia.
- Department of Neurology, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lu M, Taylor BV, Körner H. Genomic Effects of the Vitamin D Receptor: Potentially the Link between Vitamin D, Immune Cells, and Multiple Sclerosis. Front Immunol 2018; 9:477. [PMID: 29593729 PMCID: PMC5857605 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin D has a plethora of functions that are important for the maintenance of general health and in particular, the functional integrity of the immune system, such as promoting an anti-inflammatory cytokine profile and reducing the Treg/Th17 ratio. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative central nervous system (CNS) disorder of probable autoimmune origin. MS is characterized by recurring or progressive demyelination and degeneration of the CNS due in part to a misguided immune response to as yet undefined (CNS) antigens, potentially including myelin basic protein and proteolipid protein. MS has also been shown to be associated significantly with environmental factors such as the lack of vitamin D. The role of vitamin D in the pathogenesis and progression of MS is complex. Recent genetic studies have shown that various common MS-associated risk-single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are located within or in the vicinity of genes associated with the complex metabolism of vitamin D. The functional aspects of these genetic associations may be explained either by a direct SNP-associated loss- or gain-of-function in a vitamin D-associated gene or due to a change in the regulation of gene expression in certain immune cell types. The development of new genetic tools using next-generation sequencing: e.g., chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) and the accompanying rapid progress of epigenomics has made it possible to recognize that the association between vitamin D and MS could be based on the extensive and characteristic genomic binding of the vitamin D receptor (VDR). Therefore, it is important to analyze comprehensively the spatiotemporal VDR binding patterns that have been identified using ChIP-seq in multiple immune cell types to reveal an integral profile of genomic VDR interaction. In summary, the aim of this review is to connect genomic effects vitamin D has on immune cells with MS and thus, to contribute to a better understanding of the influence of vitamin D on the etiology and the pathogenesis of this complex autoimmune disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Lu
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Bruce V. Taylor
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Heinrich Körner
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immunopharmacology, Ministry of Education, Engineering Technology Research Center of Anti-inflammatory and Immunodrugs in Anhui Province, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hilven K, Vandebergh M, Smets I, Mallants K, Goris A, Dubois B. Genetic basis for relapse rate in multiple sclerosis: Association with LRP2 genetic variation. Mult Scler 2018; 24:1773-1775. [PMID: 29303040 DOI: 10.1177/1352458517749894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In contrast to successes for multiple sclerosis (MS) susceptibility, the genetic basis for clinical heterogeneity remains largely unresolved. OBJECTIVES We investigate the first reported genetic association with relapse rate. METHODS We genotyped variant rs12988804 in LRP2 in a homogeneous study population of 527 Belgian MS patients with 970 documented relapses. RESULTS The rs12988804*T allele is associated with a 1.16-fold increased hazard rate for a relapse occurring ( P = 0.0078) and a higher baseline relapse rate prior to immunomodulatory treatment ( P = 0.044). CONCLUSION Variant rs12988804 in LRP2, the first example of a genome-wide significant association with relapse rate in MS, is replicated in an independent study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Hilven
- Department of Neurosciences, Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marijne Vandebergh
- Department of Neurosciences, Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ide Smets
- Department of Neurosciences, Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Klara Mallants
- Department of Neurosciences, Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - An Goris
- Department of Neurosciences, Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bénédicte Dubois
- Department of Neurosciences, Laboratory for Neuroimmunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Neurology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|