The p150 subunit of dynactin gene in multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a multifactorial disease in which mostly unidentified genetic factors in conjunction with environmental agents affect its clinical expression. Neurodegeneration has emerged as a significant contributor to CNS lesions in MS. Genetic susceptibility of the neuron may determine the degree of ensuing neurodegeneration after an inflammatory attack. We have recently described mutations in the p150 subunit of the molecular motor dynactin (DCTN1) in amyotrophic lateral slerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) that may predispose different neuron types to degeneration. Given the common f…