New candidate loci for multiple sclerosis susceptibility revealed by a whole genome association screen in a Belgian population

J Neuroimmunol. 2003 Oct;143(1-2):65-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2003.08.013.

Abstract

We have completed a whole genome screen for association with multiple sclerosis (MS) in a Belgian population. The 6000 microsatellite markers provided through the Genetic Association of Multiple Sclerosis in EuropeanS (GAMES) collaborative were genotyped in case-control and family-based samples. The 20 most promising markers included three markers (D6S1615, D6S2444 and TNFa) from the classically established HLA class II cluster and one (D6S265) from the recently re-emphasized HLA class I cluster. In other highlighted regions, preliminary candidate genes from the immune system have been identified: e.g. the integrin ligand EDIL3, the high-mobility group box protein TOX, neutral sphingomyelinase activating factor (NSMAF) and the B-cell specific transcription factor POU2AF1.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Belgium / epidemiology
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Cohort Studies
  • Female
  • Genetic Markers*
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease*
  • Genetic Testing / methods*
  • Genetic Testing / statistics & numerical data
  • Genetics, Population
  • Genome, Human*
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Linkage Disequilibrium
  • Male
  • Microsatellite Repeats
  • Multiple Sclerosis / epidemiology
  • Multiple Sclerosis / genetics*

Substances

  • Genetic Markers