Chemokine Gene Variants and Multiple Sclerosis in Australians
Author Information
Author(s): Bugeja Matthew J, Booth David, Bennetts Bruce, Heard Robert, Rubio Justin, Stewart Graeme
Primary Institution: The Institute for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Millennium Institute, University of Sydney
Hypothesis
Are polymorphisms in the CC chemokine gene cluster associated with multiple sclerosis susceptibility in Australians?
Conclusion
The study suggests that several chemokines may be associated with susceptibility to multiple sclerosis, warranting further investigation.
Supporting Evidence
- Four SNPs showed marginally significant transmission distortion.
- Two independent cohorts were used to confirm findings.
- 90% of MS patients were of northern European origin.
Takeaway
This study looked at specific genes to see if they are linked to multiple sclerosis in Australians. They found some genes that might be important for understanding the disease.
Methodology
A two-stage analysis involving sequencing of chemokine genes and genotyping of 12 candidate SNPs in MS trio families.
Limitations
The findings may not survive corrections for multiple comparisons, and the sample may not represent all populations.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 373 MS trio families, predominantly of northern European origin, with a female to male ratio of 4:1.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.03
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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