Sequence Bio launches genetics study of familial multiple sclerosis

September 20, 2024

sequence bio launches genetics study of familial multiple sclerosis

new study aims to determine if genetic factors identified in newfoundland and labrador families contribute to the development of ms

Together with local neurologists, researchers, and volunteering participants, Sequence Bio is proud to collaborate on a new research study focusing on the genetics of multiple sclerosis (MS) in Newfoundland and Labrador families.

Through this study, Sequence Bio aims to determine if specific genetic differences between individuals with MS and their unaffected relatives contribute to the development of the disease.

“MS is a long-term health problem that affects millions of people worldwide, and the exact cause of this disease isn’t fully understood,” said Lynn Healey, chief executive officer of Sequence Bio. “New insights about what leads to MS could help us discover new therapeutic targets that enable and advance global drug discovery and development programs.”

Newfoundland and Labrador is an ideal place to identify genetic factors associated with MS because of the population’s unique demographic history and genetic makeup.

“One in every 400 Canadians has MS. In Newfoundland and Labrador, there are families with a substantially higher rate of MS, possibly due to genetic variation amplified by the founder effect,” said Dr. Bari Ballew, the study’s Principal Investigator and Sequence Bio’s Sr. Director of Data Science and Analytics. “Given this higher prevalence of MS within families, we are well positioned to identify genetic risk factors for this disease. Our hope is that these insights could someday contribute to improved diagnosis or the development of treatments for MS."

Enrollment in the Study of Familial MS is by referral only from current study collaborators Dr. Michelle Ploughman, Dr. Mark Stefanelli, or Dr. Fraser Clift.

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 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 contact us at hi@sequencebio.com or 1.800.296.3481.