Differences in the sequence of a single gene may be partly responsible for causing around two per cent of relatively common autoimmune disorders, including multiple sclerosis and diabetes.
The gene codes for an enzyme called sialic acid acetylesterase (SIAE) that regulates the immune system's B cells — the cells responsible for producing antibodies against foreign invaders.
In 24 of 923 people with conditions such as Crohn's disease, type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and multiple sclerosis, the gene was present in a variant form.Read the full story here.
Source: MS Research Australia
