[Multiple sclerosis as a polygenic disease: an update].

Area of Science:

• Neuroimmunology
• Genetics
• Epidemiology

Context:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory central nervous system disease.
• MS exhibits a polygenic inheritance pattern, suggesting contributions from multiple genes.
• Understanding the genetic basis of MS is crucial for disease management and research.

Purpose:

• To review validated genetic findings for multiple sclerosis (MS).
• To describe the application of candidate gene analysis, linkage studies, and genome-wide association screening (GWAS) in MS research.
• To present data on MS associations with individual genes and allelic combinations.

Summary:

• This review consolidates findings from candidate gene studies, linkage analyses, and genome-wide association screening (GWAS) for multiple sclerosis (MS).
• It details validated genetic loci and genes implicated in MS predisposition across various chromosomes.
• The review also covers associations between MS and combined effects of multiple gene alleles.

Impact:

• Provides a comprehensive overview of the genetic architecture of multiple sclerosis.
• Highlights the evolution and utility of different genetic research strategies in identifying MS susceptibility genes.
• Informs future research directions for understanding MS pathogenesis and developing targeted therapies.