Official Title
Integrating Genetic and Environmental Risk Scores Into an Algorithm to Predict Multiple Sclerosis Susceptibility
Brief Title
Genes and Environment in Multiple Sclerosis
Protocol ID
NCT01353547
Lead Sponsor
Columbia University
Brief Summary
The purpose of the research study is to identify the genetic, environmental and immune
profiles that may increase a person's risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS). While
MS is not a disease caused by a single variation in genetic material (DNA), a single
environmental factor, or a single malfunction in immune cells, there are genetic
alterations, environmental exposures and immunologic factors that make the development of
MS more likely. Obtaining information about who is at risk for MS will be beneficial in
the future if the investigators can identify effective ways to prevent or slow down the
progression of this disease.
Detailed Description
MS is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system (white bloods cells that normally
fight infection) becomes misdirected and attacks healthy tissue. In patients with MS, the
misdirected white blood cells attack myelin, a lining that insulates the nerves found in
the brain and spinal cord. This results in inflammation and damage in the myelin. Loss of
this protective lining disrupts nerve impulses and causes abnormal function in the
nervous system.
This large research study will ultimately enroll 5000 subjects who are at risk of
developing MS.
Study Period
Enrollment Count
5,000 participants
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
- First Degree Relatives of Patients with MS, or
- Patients who have received anti-TNFa therapy as treatment for inflammatory diseases
other than MS such as Crohn's disease, psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, or
- Patients that have been referred for an evaluation of first presentation of
neurologic symptoms but do not have a diagnosis of MS
- Live in the United States
Exclusion Criteria:
- Does not match any of the inclusion criteria
Filters
Multiple Sclerosis
RECRUITING
ADULT
OLDER_ADULT