Disease susceptibility Pathways in Multiple Sclerosis

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My group is studying the genes involved in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis so that effective therapies may be developed. Several genes have been shown to contribute to MS susceptibility – for example the KIR receptors that are expressed on immune cells called NK cells, tumour necrosis factor-receptor 1, the interleukin-7 receptor alpha chain, and the (e) the T-box transcription factor eomesodermin (EOMES) gene region. These genes are very close to each other on the chromosomes, and so it has been difficult to work out their relative importance. We have developed methods that will allow us to study each of these genes in isolation, and determine how each contributes to the pathogenecity of MS. Data from our studies will be used in the development of new and more effective therapies for this debilitating disease.