- The study of ancient DNA from early European populations, which dates back up to 34,000 years, provides vital insights into the origins of multiple sclerosis (MS) and throws light on many genetic features in current Europe.
- By comparing ancient and current DNA, researchers discovered a complicated interplay between genetic variations that formerly protected against animal-borne illnesses and the increasing risk of MS in modern populations.
What is multiple sclerosis?
- MS is a chronic autoimmune illness of the central nerve system.
- It causes a variety of symptoms, including weariness, muscular weakness, numbness, and eye issues.
- MS can take many distinct forms, the most common of which is relapsing-remitting MS.
- While there is no cure, there are therapies available to help control symptoms and reduce the disease development.
Ancient DNA Role
- It plays a key role in genomic exploration. Ancient DNA from 1,664 individuals in Western Europe and Asia was sequenced, allowing for a thorough examination of genetic changes across time.
- Modern Comparisons: To discover evolutionary transitions, these ancient genomes were compared to DNA from the UK Biobank, which included over 410,000 “white-British” people.
Insights into Multiple Sclerosis
- Protective variations: A study found that genetic variations linked to an elevated risk of MS were originally used to defend against illnesses transmitted by Yamnaya cattle herders.
- Bronze Age Migration: Around 5,000 years ago, the Yamnaya people migrated to Western Europe from territories such as current Ukraine and southern Russia.
Regional Disparities in Mississippi
- North Europeans: Northern Europeans have the highest MS frequency, notably in nations like Ireland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden, where Yamnaya-related genetic heritage is more common.
- Southern Europeans had a lower prevalence of MS than Neolithic farmers due to genetic differences.
Implications of Disease and Evolution
- Changing Genetic features: The findings show how formerly favourable genetic features may become deleterious as settings and living situations change.
- Pathogenic infections increased throughout the Bronze Age due to increasing closeness between people and domestic animals, resulting in the development of protective genetic variations.
Recalibrating Immune Systems.
- Reinterpretation of MS: This study provides a fresh viewpoint on MS, emphasising the need of recalibrating the immune system rather than suppressing it, taking into account the transition from past to present hygienic conditions.
- Broader Health Implications: The study’s findings apply to a variety of health issues, including the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and type 2 diabetes among Eastern Europeans.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/dna-from-ancient-europeans-reveals-surprising-multiple-sclerosis-origins/article67733763.ece#:~:text=DNA%20obtained%20from%20the%20bones,people%20from%20animal%2Dborne%20diseases.