Is multiple sclerosis hereditary disease

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The presence of lesions on the brain and spinal cord is indicative of multiple sclerosis, a condition where nerve cell damage and degradation to the myelin sheath occur. Multiple sclerosis falls under the category of autoimmune disorders as it arises from aberrant immune system activity targeting nervous tissue within one's own body.

Although MS is not a hereditary illness that gets transferred across generations, individuals have the possibility of inheriting genetic susceptibility. Hence, unlike traits such as black hair or dimples that are inherited in a straightforward manner; MS does not follow this pattern genetically.

While the exact cause of multiple sclerosis is uncertain, numerous genes are believed to play a role in determining its risk. The most significant genetic factors linked with an increased likelihood for developing this disease are alterations within the HLA-DRB1 gene. Besides these variations, other contributors that elevate a person's chances of contracting MS encompass changes inside the IL7R gene and environmental triggers such as exposure to Epstein-Barr virus, insufficient vitamin D levels or smoking habits.

The family of genes known as the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) complex contains the HLA-DRB1 gene. Its purpose is to aid in distinguishing proteins created by foreign invaders, such as viruses and bacteria from those generated within the body's confines. Regular variations exist among each HLA gene enabling a person’s immune system to respond effectively against an extensive variety of external proteins. While changes in numerous HLA genes are connected with heightened vulnerability towards multiple sclerosis, one specific variant -HLD-DRB1*15:01 – has been identified as being most strongly associated with genetic risk factors for this disease.

Instructions for creating two receptor proteins, interleukin 7 (IL-7) and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), are provided by TheIL7R gene. These receptors exist within the cell membrane of immune cells and encourage signaling pathways which promote the proliferation and survival of these same immune cells. In multiple sclerosis, a genetic variation results in an IL-7 receptor that is located inside the cell rather than in its membrane; it remains unclear if this change affects TSLP reception as well.

The involvement of the HLA-DRB1and IL-7R genes in the immune system suggests a possible connection between alterations within them and autoimmune responses that harm nerve cells and myelin sheath, ultimately causing multiple sclerosis symptoms. Nevertheless, their precise contribution to this condition's progression remains uncertain at present.

Follow the link of the selected polymorphism to read a brief description of how the selected polymorphism affects Multiple sclerosis and see a list of existing studies.

SNP polymorphisms related to the topic Multiple sclerosis: