MS Queensland

Two microRNAs (miRNAs) thought to regulate immune genes are found at lower levels in the blood of those with MS than in unaffected individuals.

Researchers found lower expression of two miRNAs — miR-17 and miR-20a — in individuals with relapsing-remitting, secondary-progressive and primary-progressive MS.

Their results suggest that the miRNAs down-regulation is linked to enhanced messenger RNA levels for some of the same T cell related genes that get over-expressed in MS patient blood samples.

Based on these findings, the researchers believe miR-17 and miR-20a might contribute to MS development.

Source: MS Research Australia