A Comprehensive Exploration of the Transcriptomic Landscape in Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Genomics
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, incurable neurological disorder characterized by demyelination.
• While genetic mutations are linked to MS, they don't explain all cases, suggesting a role for altered gene expression.

Approach:

• This review focuses on RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) methods, including bulk and single-cell approaches, for analyzing transcriptomic profiles in MS.
• RNA-seq is rapidly replacing microarrays due to its ability to generate vast amounts of data.

Key Points:

• Distinct molecular signatures characterize different stages of MS.
• Non-coding RNAs are identified as potentially crucial players in MS.
• Sex-dependence in biological processes and drug responses is observed in MS.
• New deregulated pathways, such as neddylation, are identified in MS.
• Spatial transcriptomics links inflammation to neurodegeneration in MS.

Conclusions:

• Transcriptomic analysis using RNA-seq is a powerful strategy for uncovering novel mechanisms in complex diseases like MS.
• Understanding altered gene expression and pathways offers new avenues for MS research and potential therapeutic targets.