NEW YORK (GenomeWeb) – Genomics Medicine Ireland announced last week that it has partnered with several Irish research institutions on a study aimed at identifying genetic markers of multiple sclerosis.
Through the effort, Genomics Medicine Ireland will analyze MS patients and identify biomarkers that can be used for for disease diagnosis, as well as predicting disease severity and personalizing treatment. Its collaborators include researchers at Cork University Hospital in conjunction with the Clinical Research Facility Cork; St. Vincent’s University Hospital; Tallaght Hospital; and Altnagelvin Hospital in conjunction with the Western Health and Social Care Trust.
"The relative homogeneity of the Irish population means it is easier to identify and study genetic variants amongst a test population," Brian Sweeney, consultant neurologist at Cork University Hospital, said in a statement. "This research will help us gain a better understanding of the role of genetics in multiple sclerosis and enable the development of personalized or precision medicines, which will potentially deliver more effective treatment regimes."