Familial occurrence of multiple sclerosis in Humans
This review indicates that familial aggregation and higher concordance in monozygotic twins suggest a genetic contribution to MS susceptibility. The strongest genetic link is HLA-DRB1*15:01, with over 200 other susceptibility signals identified. Environmental and lifestyle factors also modify risk, and pathological processes may begin years before symptoms appear.
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Why it matters
Understanding the genetic and environmental factors related to MS can inform future research on early detection and prevention strategies.
What this does not prove
This review does not establish direct causative relationships for MS, focusing mainly on familial occurrence.
Next milestone
No next milestone was established from the available source.
Study facts
- Study design
- Other
- Participants / samples
- Not reported
- Randomised
- Not reported
- Controlled
- Not reported
- Primary endpoint met
- Not reported
- Relevant MS type
- Not reported
- Publication date
- 2026-09-30
- Evidence reviewed
- Abstract only
- Regulatory approval
- Not reported
- Research areas
- Not classified
Original sources
- Primary evidenceFamilial occurrence of multiple sclerosis - current state of knowledge. ↗DOI: 10.5603/pjnns.112253
Supporting passages (8)
study designThis review summarizes the current evidence on the familial occurrence of MS, highlights the interplay of inherited and acquired risk factors, and discusses implications for early detection and future primary prevention strategies.
subjectsMultiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system with a complex, multifactorial etiology.
findingsFamilial aggregation, along with a higher concordance rate in monozygotic than dizygotic twins, supports a significant, albeit non-Mendelian, genetic contribution to MS susceptibility.
findingsThe strongest genetic association involves the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) region, particularly HLA-DRB1*15:01, while genome-wide association studies have identified over 200 additional susceptibility signals, most of which implicate immune regulation and, increasingly, microglial biology.
findingsEnvironmental and lifestyle factors, including Epstein-Barr virus infection, vitamin D deficiency, limited exposure to ultraviolet B radiation, cigarette smoking, and adolescent obesity, act as complementary risk modifiers.
findingsIncreasing evidence suggests that pathological processes associated with MS may begin many years before the first clinical symptoms.
publication datePublication date: 2026-09-30
limitationsTitle: Familial occurrence of multiple sclerosis - current state of knowledge.
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