Authors:
Mechelli R, Umeton R, Policano C, Annibali V, Coarelli G, Ricigliano VAG... Blackwell J, et al.
Authors notes:
PLoS ONE. 2013;8(5):e63300
Keywords:
Candidate interactive, gene-environment interaction, genome-wide association, multiple sclerosis
Abstract:
Though difficult, the study of gene-environment interactions in multifactorial diseases is crucial for interpreting the relevance of non-heritable factors and prevents from overlooking genetic associations with small but measurable effects.
We propose a "candidate interactome" (i.e. a group of genes whose products are known to physically interact with environmental factors that may be relevant for disease pathogenesis) analysis of genome-wide association data in multiple sclerosis.
The interaction between genotype and Epstein Barr virus emerges as relevant for multiple sclerosis etiology.
However, in line with recent data on the coexistence of common and unique strategies used by viruses to perturb the human molecular system, also other viruses have a similar potential, though probably less relevant in epidemiological terms.