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Proteome-Wide Mendelian Randomization Identifies Causal Proteins for Multiple Sclerosis Susceptibility and Severity
1Department of Neurology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
Genes
|July 28, 2026
Summary
This study used genetic data to find plasma proteins linked to multiple sclerosis (MS) risk and severity. Several proteins were identified as either increasing or decreasing MS susceptibility and disability.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Genetics
- Proteomics
Background:
- Genetic factors for multiple sclerosis (MS) are known, but the role of circulating proteins is unclear.
- Identifying protein pathways could lead to new MS treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the causal links between plasma proteins and MS susceptibility and severity.
- To explore protein-mediated pathways in MS pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- A proteome-wide Mendelian randomization study was conducted.
- Data from four large-scale protein quantitative trait loci studies were integrated.
Main Results:
- Four plasma proteins showed causal effects on MS susceptibility (ALPI, MXRA8, IDUA, NID2).
- Three proteins were linked to MS severity (MANSC1, LYVE1, CBR1).
Conclusions:
- Genetic evidence supports plasma protein associations with MS.
- Identified proteins implicate pathways in gut-brain axis, extracellular matrix, and oxidative stress.
- Findings offer candidates for MS biomarker and therapeutic research.
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