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Project

The immunogenetic architecture of disease heterogeneity in multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common neurological disorders in young adults, affecting around 10,000 people in Belgium and leading to important physical as well as cognitive disability. MS is characterized by three hallmarks: inflammation, demyelination and axonal loss. More than 200 genetic risk factors for MS have been identified. These genetic risk factors indicate a primary role for the immune system in MS, and have pinpointed key pathways as targets for treatment. Understanding heterogeneity of disease is the next challenge in complex diseases. MS is  well known for its important patient-to-patient heterogeneity, with prognosis having a major impact on patient’s quality of life. First data from other diseases and from our group on MS suggest that genetic factors determining disease heterogeneity are largely distinct to those determining susceptibility. In this project, we will use genetic, epigenetic and immunological markers to investigate whether specific immune pathways contribute to disease heterogeneity. We will evaluate these markers as potential biomarkers for treatment choice and follow-up. Such an understanding would address an important need for personalised medicine given the current range of immunomodulatory products and would provide leads for the development of novel treatments.

Date:28 Aug 2017 →  31 May 2022
Keywords:Multiple Sclerosis, Heterogeneity, Genetics
Disciplines:Immunology, Immunogenetics
Project type:PhD project