Two HLA class I genes independently associated with multiple sclerosis

J Neuroimmunol. 2010 Sep 14;226(1-2):172-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2010.07.006. Epub 2010 Aug 1.

Abstract

Objective: The risk of multiple sclerosis (MS) is influenced by HLA-DRB1, while protective effects have been proposed for HLA-A*02 and HLA-C*05. Our aim was to further understand the role of HLA class I in MS through a comprehensive investigation.

Methods: 1529 MS patients and 1814 controls from Sweden and Norway were genotyped for HLA-DRB1, HLA-A, and HLA-C. Simultaneous analysis of all alleles while adjusting for confounding was achieved using logistic regression.

Results: We observed independent effects of all three genes. We confirm the HLA-A*02 (OR=0.73, p=9.2 x 10(-4)) association and report a novel effect of HLA-C*08 (OR=1.85, p=0.0093).

Conclusions: The HLA class I region contains two factors modulating MS risk, characterized by independent associations with HLA-A and HLA-C.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cohort Studies
  • Female
  • Gene Frequency
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease*
  • Genome-Wide Association Study / methods
  • HLA-A2 Antigen / genetics*
  • HLA-C Antigens / genetics*
  • HLA-DR Antigens / genetics*
  • HLA-DRB1 Chains
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Multiple Sclerosis / genetics*
  • Norway
  • Risk Factors
  • Sweden

Substances

  • HLA-A2 Antigen
  • HLA-C Antigens
  • HLA-DR Antigens
  • HLA-DRB1 Chains