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NetWellness provides the highest quality health information and education services created and evaluated by faculty of our partner universities.
Monday, March 22, 2010
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NetWellness provides the highest quality health information and education services created and evaluated by faculty of our partner universities.
Monday, March 22, 2010
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Inherited Disorders and Birth Defects |
Multiple Sclerosis02/20/2001 |
What type of disease is Multiple Sclerosis, ie. autosomal dominant, ect.What chromosomes are affected in Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, disabling disorder that affects the central nervous system of the body. This neurologic disorder is what is known as a demyelinating disease - it destroys the myelin - the outside layer of a nerve fiber, which helps to move nerve impulses along the nerves. This leads to incoordination, weakness, problems with sensation such as loss of touch, and can eventually lead to paralysis and/or loss of vision.The exact cause of MS is not known. It is clear however that it involves an autoimmune response - an immune response that is directed against the central nervous system. It is thought that MS is caused by the interaction of one or more environmental triggers - infection or exposure to a virus - and the person`s immune system. These triggers set off a series of immunologic events that leads to inflammation, demyelination and injury affecting the brain, optic nerves and spinal cord.
At this time, MS is not thought to be inherited. Thus, it does not involve the chromosomes or a single specific gene. However, there is data from twin studies and population-based studies that suggest there is a genetic influence. Again, no specific genes have been identified.
It is thought that people inherit a predisposition to certain environmental agents - such as a virus - and if exposed to that virus, then has a much greater chance of developing MS. Thus, MS can be seen to `run in families`. If a person has a first degree relative - such as a parent or sibling with MS - that person has a several fold increased risk of also developing MS over the general population.
There is an excellent website listed below that is sponsored by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society that may be helpful.
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Anne Matthews, RN, PhD Director, Genetic Counseling and Family Studies Associate Professor Department of Genetics School of Medicine Case Western Reserve University |
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