Genetics

Researchers are zeroing in on two promising cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers—CHIT1 and SERPINA3—that may shed light on the hidden biology driving progression in multiple sclerosis (MS). In the Ocrelizumab Biomarker Outcome Evaluation (OBOE) study, CHIT1, linked to microglial activity, was elevated in both relapsing and progressive MS and dropped significantly after a year of ocrelizumab treatment, suggesting its potential as a treatment-response marker. SERPINA3, tied to reactive astrocytes, was elevated only in progressive MS and correlated with markers of smoldering disease, though it remained unchanged by therapy. Together, these findings suggest CHIT1 and SERPINA3 could help distinguish and track different aspects of MS progression, opening the door to more precise monitoring and potentially more targeted therapies.