Identifying genetic and environmental factors in multiple sclerosis

Integrating Genetic and Environmental Risk Scores Into an Algorithm to Predict Multiple Sclerosis Susceptibility

Observational Columbia University · NCT01353547

This study is trying to find out how genes and the environment might increase the risk of developing multiple sclerosis by gathering information from 5,000 people who are at risk.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment5000 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorColumbia University Academic / other
Locations5 sites (Bethesda, Maryland and 4 other locations)
Trial IDNCT01353547 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to identify the genetic, environmental, and immune profiles that may increase the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS). By enrolling 5000 subjects who are at risk, the study will collect biological specimens and conduct online surveys to gather comprehensive data. The goal is to understand the interplay of genetic alterations, environmental exposures, and immune factors in the onset of MS, which could lead to effective prevention strategies in the future.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include first-degree relatives of MS patients, individuals who have received anti-TNFa therapy for other inflammatory diseases, or those referred for evaluation of neurological symptoms without a diagnosis of MS.

Not a fit: Patients who do not meet the inclusion criteria will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and management strategies for individuals at risk of developing multiple sclerosis.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in identifying risk factors for autoimmune diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* First Degree Relatives of Patients with MS, or
* Patients who have received anti-TNFa therapy as treatment for inflammatory diseases other than MS such as Crohn's disease, psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, or
* Patients that have been referred for an evaluation of first presentation of neurologic symptoms but do not have a diagnosis of MS
* Live in the United States

Exclusion Criteria:

* Does not match any of the inclusion criteria

Where this trial is running

Bethesda, Maryland and 4 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Multiple Sclerosisgenomic analysisonline surveysbiological specimen collection
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.