Does multiple sclerosis have a hereditary component?

Yes: No single gene for MS has been found or likely to be found. Multiple genes have been identified which in different population studies worldwide seem to increase risk or protect against ms. The vast majority of these genes relate to immune system function. Genetic background, combined with environmental trigger likely trigger this disorder.

Multiple sclerosis: A danish study does suggest that relatives of ms patients may be as much as seven times more likely to get the disease compared to people with no known relatives with the disease. This may be the result of common genetics. It could also be caused by common environmental exposures. No one knows for sure.

Not genetic disorder: Ms does seem to run in families, but does not occur as a hereditary condition. Rather, our genetic makeup confers either susceptibility or protection, and we have identified genes in both categories. Even if susceptible, without environmental influences, such as latitude, the disease will not occur. So, multiple factors play a role affecting our immune system expressions.