Environmental and Genetic Risk Factors for Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis

The overall goal of this project is to determine whether well-established environmental and genetic risk factors for adult onset MS play an important role in susceptibility to pediatric-onset MS. Our study design is based on the hypothesis that genetic influences, specifically variation at HLA-DRB1 and other confirmed non-MHC MS loci, as well as environmental exposures including EBV infection and tobacco smoke, contribute to disease risk. In addition, we will also examine the relationship between serum levels of 25(OH) vitamin D3 and prior vitamin D status, and risk for pediatric onset MS. Finally, we will investigate whether specific G x E, and other multivariable relationships influencing risk exist for pediatric-onset MS. There are 16 collaborating sites other than UCSF that will enroll cases and controls for this study.