Polymorphism in the serotonin transporter gene polymorphisms ( 5-HTTLPR) modifies the association between significant life events and depression in people with multiple sclerosis.

Background: In the general population, variation in the serotonin-transporter-linked polymorphic region ( 5-HTTLPR) has been shown to modify the association between stressful events and depression/anxiety. This has not been examined in people with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objective: We examined the interaction between significant life events (SLE), 5-HTTLPR and depression/anxiety.

An adverse lipid profile and increased levels of adiposity significantly predict clinical course after a first demyelinating event.

Objective: To investigate the prospective associations between adiposity and lipid-related variables and conversion to multiple sclerosis (MS), time to subsequent relapse and progression in disability.

Methods: A cohort of 279 participants with a first clinical diagnosis of central nervous system demyelination was prospectively followed to 5-year review. Height, weight, waist and hip circumference were measured, and serum samples taken for measurement of lipids and apolipoproteins.

Stressful life events and the risk of initial central nervous system demyelination.

Background: There is substantial evidence that stress increases multiple sclerosis disease activity, but limited evidence on its association with the onset of multiple sclerosis.

Objective: To examine the association between stressful life events and risk of first demyelinating event (FDE).

Methods: This was a multicentre incident case-control study.