World-first study by UniSA uses DNA to spot early warning signs of MS

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Image Credit: University of South Australia

In a groundbreaking world-first, researchers at the University of South Australia are using DNA to help identify early warning signs of multiple sclerosis (MS), long before symptoms appear.

Funded by an MS Australia Incubator Grant, the project uses a new research method known as ‘recall by genotype’ to explore the genetic and biological factors that could predict a person’s risk of developing the disease, thus paving the way for earlier diagnosis, targeted treatments and even prevention.

Led by Dr David Stacey, the study will focus on the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a common infection that causes glandular fever and is strongly linked to MS. While EBV affects up to 90% of the population, only a small percentage develop MS, which disrupts communication between the brain, spinal cord and body.

Still, the autoimmune condition affects more than 33,000 Australians, and the exact cause remains unknown, though genetics and environmental factors are thought to play a key role.

“For many years we’ve known that the Epstein-Barr virus is a likely precursor for MS,” Dr Stacey says.

“But because the virus affects up to 90% of the population, it’s difficult to pin down why some people go on to develop MS while others don’t. We believe the way a person’s immune system responds to the Epstein-Barr virus may be a key factor, and genetics can help us uncover that.”

Dr David Stacey, MS Australia (supplied)

The team will use an innovative technique called recall by genotype (RbG), never before applied to MS research, to group participants based on whether they have a high or low genetic risk. More than 1000 South Australians without an MS diagnosis will have their genetic risk scored, and then compare biological traits in a subset of participants with either high or low genetic risk.

“By grouping people based on their genetic profile, we expect to find those with a high genetic risk for MS will also show biological differences – even if they don’t have the disease,” Dr Stacey says.

Like studying the immune system’s blueprint before the disease starts, it may lead to earlier detection, new treatments or even prevention.

The study will also address the ethical and social implications of using personal genetic information in research.

“If we identify people who are at risk of developing MS, we need to consider how – and whether – to share that information, particularly as this information may not yet be clinically actionable,” Dr Stacey says.

Dr Stacey’s project is one of four funded through MS Australia’s 2025 Incubator Grant program.

“Some of the most exciting breakthroughs begin with a bold question and a well-placed investment,” says Dr Tennille Luker, Head of Research at MS Australia.

“Our Incubator Grants are designed to encourage new ideas while helping grow and strengthen a world-class Australian MS research community.”

With collaborators from the Perron Institute and the University of Adelaide, the team hopes their findings will spark larger studies and lay the groundwork for early diagnostic tools, an important step towards better treatment and prevention for the thousands of Aussies living with MS.