MS at the Limits 2022 | The ADAMS study: MS genetics in under-represented populations

Benjamin Jacobs, BMBCh. MRCOP, MSc, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK, discusses the ADAMS study, a large genome-wide association study that is trying to determine whether the genetic risk factors for MS are the same for people of different ethnic backgrounds. The study involves genotyping many MS patients from diverse backgrounds by studying saliva samples for DNA variants and comparing them to people without MS. Thus, the study aims to build a genetic map of how changes in DNA influence the risk of MS across populations of diverse ancestral backgrounds. Dr Jacobs explains that although it is a slow process, the tangible benefits of the ADAMS study will hopefully lead to new drug targets and help with MS prediction. Furthermore, it could help to shed light on global trends in the epidemiology of MS and potentially prove that the genetic basis is very similar across ancestral backgrounds. This would also make a strong case for carrying out research in countries with less developed healthcare services, thereby ensuring that MS cases are recognized in these countries. This interview took place during the 2022 Multiple Sclerosis at the Limits Conference in London, UK.

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