A recent study published in Nature has identified a genetic variant that increases the severity of multiple sclerosis (MS), a progressive autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. The researchers, from Yale University and other institutions, found that this variant is associated with faster disease progression. The study, which involved data from over 12,000 MS patients, revealed that individuals with two copies of the gene variant experienced a quicker decline in mobility, needing a walking aid four years earlier than those without the variant. The genes affected by this variant are involved in repairing damaged cells and controlling viral infections in the brain and spinal cord, rather than the immune system. These findings highlight the importance of resilience and repair mechanisms in the nervous system for understanding MS progression and developing new therapies. The study also emphasizes the need to focus on addressing the neurodegenerative aspects of MS, as current treatments only target the inflammatory autoimmune phase of the disease. The researchers believe that their discoveries provide valuable insights for future drug development to preserve the health of MS patients. This work was made possible through collaboration among more than 70 international institutions and received support from various funding sources, including the National Institutes of Health and the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada.

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