Sequence Bio and Memorial University collaborate to study the genetics of multiple sclerosis

December 16, 2024

sequence Bio and memorial university collaborate to study the genetics of multiple sclerosis in newfoundland and labrador

research collaboration agreement to focus on a family-based genetics study of MS for the identification of novel drug targets

Sequence Bio is proud to announce that it has entered into a research collaboration agreement with Memorial University for its Study of Familial Multiple Sclerosis (MS). 

Under the terms of the agreement, researchers from Memorial University’s Faculty of Medicine will apply their specialized knowledge in family-based research and multiple sclerosis to help inform the study’s experimental design, refer eligible participants for study enrollment, and interpret study results. Sequence Bio is the sponsor of the Study of Familial MS, and is undertaking all protocol management, participant consenting, sample collection, and bioinformatic analysis activities. 

“Collaborating with leading organizations like Memorial University is key to helping realize the full, global potential of homegrown genetic research, and for the continued advancement of the province’s health innovation ecosystem,” said Lynn Healey, chief executive officer of Sequence Bio. “This collaboration truly is greater than the sum of its parts, and we’re confident that the combined expertise and capabilities of Sequence Bio and Memorial University could yield new insights about the genetic causes of MS.”

As Newfoundland and Labrador’s university, Memorial University plays a critical role in driving innovation and investigating pressing global issues. Its faculty, staff and students work with community partners and stakeholders to move ideas forward.

“As one of Canada’s top 20 research universities that is recognized internationally, Memorial’s multidisciplinary research teams are addressing health-care challenges directly affecting our communities and improving health outcomes for Canadians,” said Dr. Tana Allen, vice-president (research).

About the Study of Familial MS

Through this study, Sequence Bio is aiming to characterize the genetic architecture of MS, including both known and novel genetic causes of MS in the Newfoundland and Labrador population. Current neurologist and researcher collaborators include Memorial University Faculty of Medicine’s Dr. Michelle Ploughman, Dr. Mark Stefanelli, Dr. Fraser Clift, Dr. Terry-Lynn Young, and Dr. Kathy Hodgkinson. Sequence Bio would like to thank these collaborators and the participants who consented to join the Study of Familial MS for enabling this research.

About Memorial University

Perched on Canada’s North Atlantic coast, Memorial University is a destination for discovery. A beacon for the 21st-century explorer, Newfoundland and Labrador’s university is a unique learning community founded in 1925 as a living memorial to those who lost their lives in the First World War — “that in freedom of learning their cause and sacrifice might not be forgotten.” Today nearly 18,000 students from over 120 countries come together to discover. From the classics to advanced technology, the comprehensive university offers certificate, diploma, undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate programs across six campuses, numerous locations and online. A global network of more than 100,000 accomplished alumni throughout the world strengthens Memorial University’s capacity and reputation for leadership in world-class research, teaching and public engagement. To take a closer look, visit www.mun.ca.

About Sequence Bio

Sequence Bio is researching the genetic characteristics of the Newfoundland and Labrador founder population to identify and validate novel drug targets, helping to accelerate the discovery of new treatments for diseases with high unmet medical need. Sequence Bio is proudly based in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. 

For more information about Sequence Bio and its research, please visit www.SequenceBio.com, or contact us at hi@sequencebio.com or 1.800.296.3481.

Media Contacts

Sequence Bio
Chris McDonald
VP, Market Development
+1-800-296-3481 x708

Memorial University
Jeff Green
Manager, Communications, Office of the Vice-President (Research)
709-687-9243
jeffg@mun.ca