What Is Multiple Sclerosis?

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system. MS is thought to be an autoimmune disease. In MS, the body's immune system produces cells and proteins (antibodies) that attack myelin, a fatty substance that protects nerve fibers. The cause of MS is unknown. It is not an inherited disease, but it appears that genetic factors play a role in at least some cases.
• MS affects significantly more women than men. Most patients first begin to have symptoms between the ages of 20 - 40.
• The course of MS varies among patients. The disease may be mild, moderate, or severe.

Natalizumab Drug Warning

• In 2008, new information was added to the prescribing label of natalizumab (Tysabri) warning of the risk of liver damage. Cases of liver injury have been reported within a week after an initial dose of natalizumab, as well as after multiple doses.
• Patients should immediately contact their doctors if they have yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), sudden darkening of urine, unusual fatigue, or nausea and vomiting as these may be signs of liver problems. Blood tests can confirm whether liver damage has occurred. Based on symptoms and lab tests, patients may need to stop taking natalizumab.
• Natalizumab is a biologic drug approved for treating relapsing forms of MS.

Genetic Research

In 2007, scientists identified two new genes that may be associated with some cases of multiple sclerosis. Research published in the New England Journal of Medicine and Nature Genetics indicated that variations in interleukin-7 and interleukin-2 gene receptors may play a role in the development of MS. These genes are involved in regulation of the immune system.