Apr 20, 2009
Genetic brakes could slow MS
Researchers in Scotland have discovered genetic "brakes" that could slow down or stop diseases such as multiple sclerosis. The findings could lead to new treatments and even cures for illnesses that affect the immune system.
It was previously thought that a select group of master genes was responsible for controlling the growth of cells that can cause the conditions.
But the study discovered that there are actually hundreds of genes which interact with each other in a way that is much more complicated than previously thought. The scientists said variations in this genetic network could explain why people develop diseases in different ways.