Genes associated with multiple sclerosis [ 2005 - 2007 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Graeme Stewart (Principal investigator) ,  Dr Rob Heard ,  Prof Alastair Compston ,  Prof David Booth

Brief description Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common neurological disease of young adults, with very high costs in loss of quality of life, reduced contribution of sufferers to the workplace, and in treatment. No cures exist and its cause is unknown. It is, however, known to be a largely genetic disease - but the genes associated with it have yet to be identified. An international consortium, known as GAMES (Genes Associated with Multiple Sclerosis) has now completed a screen of all human chromosomes using 6000 markers to identify regions with genetic differences in multiple sclerosis patients. The Australian contribution to this study was funded by the NHMRC. This project is a continuation of the first, only moving on to fine-scale mapping of the regions identified in GAMES1, so that single genes, rather than genetic regions, are the focus for the study. It also aims to ensure Australian participation as an equal player in phase II of this major international collaboration. The Australian results will contribute to the overall study. If associations identified in single countries are found in other countries, this confirms the validity of the association. In addition, genes which are only slightly associated with disease in individual countries, may become more meaningful if they are found to be associated in the studies from other countries. In this way a sensitive and robust comparison of the genes which affect predisposition to MS will be identified and this information can be used to target molecular pathways for drug intervention.

Funding Amount $AUD 571,250.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant