Genetics

A genetic study has uncovered a surprising cast of metabolic characters that may help drive multiple sclerosis—ranging from familiar amino acids like serine and lysine to unexpected players like ketone bodies and lipoproteins. By combining massive metabolomics datasets with cutting-edge Mendelian randomization, researchers identified 29 blood metabolites that appear to cause, not just correlate with, MS risk. This human-centered dive into the metabolome reveals how our everyday biochemistry may shape the onset of a complex autoimmune disease—and opens the door to new biomarkers, new therapies, and a deeper understanding of what goes wrong long before symptoms appear.