MS study puts hopes on early detection and even prevention

A world-first Australian study is using DNA to identify a person’s genetic risk of developing multiple sclerosis in a bid to lead to earlier detection, new treatments or even prevention

Australian scientists are on the cutting edge of MS research.

A world-first Australian study is using DNA to identify a person’s genetic risk of developing multiple sclerosis in a bid to lead to earlier detection, new treatments or even prevention.

The project will use an innovative approach called recall by genotype, which selects participants based on whether they have a high or low genetic risk of developing MS. This approach has not been used in MS research, either in Australia or internationally.

The study will compare immune system and viral response markers in both groups. A key focus is the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a very common virus that causes glandular fever and has been shown to be a necessary step in the development of MS.

Most people are infected with EBV during their lifetime but only a small percentage go on to develop MS. Researchers believe that differences in how the immune system responds to the virus could help explain the reasons for this.

Led by Dr David Stacey at the University of South Australia, the study is part of MS Australia’s latest Incubator Grant round, which supports out-of-the-box ideas aimed at opening new directions in MS research.

“It’s like studying the immune system’s blueprint before the disease starts,” Dr Stacey said.

“Most MS studies compare people who already have the disease with those who don’t. By focusing on people who don’t have MS but carry different levels of genetic risk, we’re hoping to uncover early immune system changes that might help explain who develops MS and why,” he said.

Dr Stacey’s study is one of four projects funded through MS Australia’s 2025 Incubator Grant program.

“Some of the most exciting breakthroughs begin with a bold question and a well-placed investment,” Tennille Luker, Head of Research at MS Australia said.

“Our Incubator Grants are designed to encourage new ideas while helping grow and strengthen a world-class Australian MS research community,” Dr Luker said.

MS Australia’s Incubator Grants have helped spark major discoveries and attract further national and international funding. For every dollar invested, researchers have secured an additional $27 in follow-on support.

More than 33,000 Australians live with MS, a number that is increasing at an alarming rate. While treatments have improved significantly, there is still no cure.

“Our mission is to accelerate research and improve outcomes for every person living with MS,” Rohan Greenland, chief executive of MS Australia.

“By backing ambitious science and investing in brilliant researchers, we’re creating the conditions for breakthroughs to emerge,” he said.

Originally published as MS study puts hopes on early detection and even prevention