Immunogenetic heterogeneity of multiple sclerosis in Sardinia

Multiple sclerosis (MS) predisposition is thought
to be influenced by a complex, yet unclear interaction of
genetic and environmental factors. Studying ethnically
selected populations may reduce genetic and environmental
heterogeneities and help clarify the underlying mechanisms
of MS susceptibility. Sardinians kept a homogeneous genetic structure and have among the highest MS frequency rates
worldwide. Interestingly, MS in Sardinia is linked to otherwise rare HLA alleles. In this light, recent findings from epidemiological and immunogenetic studies of Sardinian MS
are presented. Results confirm that, likely due to significant
genetic differences at a microgeographic level, even in this
homogeneous population MS is immunogenetically heterogeneous and tends to preferentially cluster in some more
archaic areas of the island.