World-first study could provide MS breakthrough

The research will investigate why some people develop MS and others don't, even if they are exposed to the same common virus.

University of South Australia's David Stacey told AAP the pilot study would involve an innovative approach, called "recall by genotype", which has never been used in MS research.

"It's like studying the immune system's blueprint before the disease starts," said Dr Stacey, who leads the study.

As the most common acquired chronic neurological disease affecting young adults, MS impacts more than 33,000 Australians. 

Symptoms can include loss of motor function, loss of sensation, pain, vision changes and changes to thinking and memory.

While there is no cure or single known cause for MS, many genetic and environmental factors are believed to contribute to its development.

Dr Stacey says the study will select two groups of participants based on whether they have a high or low genetic risk of MS. 

By comparing the groups, researchers hope to understand how their immune systems respond to the Epstein-Barr virus, a disease that causes glandular fever and has been strongly linked to MS.

While most people get infected with Epstein-Barr virus, only a small number develop MS.

Researchers believe differences in how a person's immune system reacts to the virus might explain why some people get MS and others don't.

"It could also help identify early biological markers that show when MS might be starting to develop. This may lead to earlier detection, new treatments or even prevention," Dr Stacey said. 

"We want to take learnings from this to help inform a larger, more scaled-up version of this study."

The research is funded through MS Australia's latest Incubator Grant round, which supports ideas aimed at opening new directions in MS research.

"Our mission is to accelerate research and improve outcomes for every person living with MS," chief executive Rohan Greenland said.

Australian Associated Press