Gene Expression-Based Identification of Novel Molecular Targets in Multiple Sclerosis
Session Number
2
Advisor(s)
Dr. John Thurmond, IMSA
Location
A155
Discipline
Chemistry
Start Date
15-4-2026 11:10 AM
End Date
15-4-2026 11:55 AM
Abstract
Multiple Sclerosis, MS, is a chronic and immune-mediated disease affecting 2.8 million people worldwide, and current therapies are incapable of halting disease progression. This study employed PandaOmics, a computational analysis and identification platform, alongside gene expression analysis and literature review, identifying novel molecular targets for MS. Two candidates were prioritized: Arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase type B, or ALOX15B, which was identified to be among the most differentially expressed genes in active MS lesions, and is heavily involved with the peroxidation of polyenoic fatty acids, such as AA and EPA. The S100A8/9 heterodimer was identified as the second novel target, otherwise referred to as calprotectin, which is a DAMP-associated complex linked to inflammation through the TLR4 and RAGE signalling pathways. The demonstrated targets showed elevated expression in MS pathology and were considered therapeutically relevant in murine inflammatory models. The findings of this study suggest both ALOX15B and S100A8/9 as potential candidates for targeted drug development concerning MS.
Gene Expression-Based Identification of Novel Molecular Targets in Multiple Sclerosis
A155
Multiple Sclerosis, MS, is a chronic and immune-mediated disease affecting 2.8 million people worldwide, and current therapies are incapable of halting disease progression. This study employed PandaOmics, a computational analysis and identification platform, alongside gene expression analysis and literature review, identifying novel molecular targets for MS. Two candidates were prioritized: Arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase type B, or ALOX15B, which was identified to be among the most differentially expressed genes in active MS lesions, and is heavily involved with the peroxidation of polyenoic fatty acids, such as AA and EPA. The S100A8/9 heterodimer was identified as the second novel target, otherwise referred to as calprotectin, which is a DAMP-associated complex linked to inflammation through the TLR4 and RAGE signalling pathways. The demonstrated targets showed elevated expression in MS pathology and were considered therapeutically relevant in murine inflammatory models. The findings of this study suggest both ALOX15B and S100A8/9 as potential candidates for targeted drug development concerning MS.