Investigating genetic and molecular factors in multiple sclerosis outcomes

From Genetics to Transcriptomics to Unravel the Mechanisms Behind a Poor Outcome in Multiple Sclerosis

Not applicable Interventional Nantes University Hospital · NCT04873492

This study is trying to find out how genetic and molecular differences in people with multiple sclerosis can explain why some have a more severe form of the disease than others.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment130 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorNantes University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Nantes, Loire-Atlantique)
Trial IDNCT04873492 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to explore the genetic and transcriptomic differences in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) to understand why some individuals experience aggressive disease progression while others do not. By analyzing biological samples from patients with clinical isolated syndrome, the research will focus on identifying differentially expressed molecules and cell subpopulations among aggressive and non-aggressive MS patients compared to healthy controls. The study will involve the collection of biological samples to facilitate these analyses, contributing to a better understanding of MS heterogeneity.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older with clinical isolated syndrome, either aggressive or non-aggressive forms of multiple sclerosis.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of clinically isolated syndrome or multiple sclerosis who do not meet the inclusion criteria may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved personalized treatment strategies for patients with multiple sclerosis.

How similar studies have performed: While similar studies have explored genetic factors in MS, this specific approach focusing on transcriptomics and aggressive versus non-aggressive outcomes is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria :

Common criteria for retrospective MS patients:

* Patients aged 18 years or older
* Clinical isolated syndrome (CIS) with or without dissemination in space
* Patients affiliated to an appropriate health insurance

Criteria for Aggressive MS group

• Start of a 2nd line therapy within the two years following the CIS

Criteria for Non aggressive MS group

* No conversion according to McDonald criteria from clinical isolated syndrome to multiple sclerosis within 2 years or
* Conversion based to McDonald criteria treated or not with first line disease modifying therapy within 2 years.
* Have a minimum of least 2 years of follow-up.

Healthy volunteers

* Aged 18 years or older
* No history of clinically isolated syndrome or MS

Pairing criteria :

* Age +/- 5 years
* Sex

Prospective MS Patients

* Patients aged 18 years or older
* Clinical isolated syndrome (CIS) with or without dissemination in space
* Patients affiliated to an appropriate health insurance

Exclusion Criteria :

* Ongoing participation to a another study
* Refusal to genetic analyses
* Immunosuppressive drug at the time of blood collection
* Plasma exchange or corticosteroid treatment within the four weeks prior to blood sample
* Adults under a legal protection regime (guardianship, trusteeship, judicial safeguard)
* Pregnancy

Where this trial is running

Nantes, Loire-Atlantique

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 Sclerosis
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.