All over the map: finding genetic information about MS.Finding the genes that are involved with MS susceptibility susceptibility the state of being susceptible. Refers usually to infectious disease but may be to physical factors such as wetting or to psychological factors such as harassment. is no small task. Humans have 30,000 to 40,000 genes which together have up to 3 billion genetic chemical sites. But with the help of a microcomputer chip, the search for the MS genes is getting a high-speed boost. The microchip (1) Another term for a microminiaturized integrated circuit (a "chip"). (2) To insert an RFID tag beneath the skin of an animal. It is expected that some day, humans will be microchipped. can test 500,000 genetic sites at one time, potentially garnering information about MS genes within a year. To find where the MS genetic material is within the human genome The human genome is the genome of Homo sapiens, which is composed of 24 distinct pairs of chromosomes (22 autosomal + X + Y) with a total of approximately 3 billion DNA base pairs containing an estimated 20,000–25,000 genes. , the Society has partnered with the International MS Genetics Consortium (IMSGC IMSGC International Multiple Sclerosis Genetics Consortium ), a group of MS genetic experts created with funding from the Society. For more information, go to nationalmssociety.org/Research2005Sept23.asp. |
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