New Biomarker Enables Personalized Treatment Selection in Multiple Sclerosis

A groundbreaking study from the University of Münster has identified a genetic biomarker that can predict the most effective therapy for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Historically, choosing between common treatments like interferon beta and glatiramer acetate (GA) was often based on trial and error, with little guidance on which to prefer. Both options are well-established, generally well-tolerated, and carry low side-effect profiles, but their effectiveness varies among individuals.

The recent research analyzed over 3,000 MS patients across international cohorts to uncover genetic indicators influencing treatment response. The team discovered that individuals carrying the HLA-A*03:01 gene allele respond significantly better to GA compared to interferon beta. This finding provides a clear criterion to guide treatment choices, potentially improving outcomes and personalizing therapy.

In practical terms, this means that patients with the HLA-A03:01 genotype could benefit more from GA, leading to fewer symptoms and better disease management. The genetic test for this biomarker is already available and used in other medical contexts, making implementation in MS treatment decisions feasible and straightforward. Approximately 30-35% of European MS patients possess the HLA-A03:01 allele, representing a substantial portion who could have tailored treatment options.

Furthermore, the study sheds light on the mechanism behind GA's effectiveness, suggesting that only specific fragments of its protein mix are necessary to elicit therapeutic immune responses. This insight opens possibilities for developing more targeted drugs in the future.

Overall, this research marks a significant step forward in personalized medicine for MS, allowing clinicians to make more informed, genetic-based decisions that could enhance patient outcomes.