Multiple Sclerosis: A Review of The Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Genetics, And Molecular Characteristics

MS is an autoimmune and inflammation-mediated syndrome that causesneurodegeneration and makes the sufferer disabled and incapacitated. The clinicalpatterns and susceptibility to the disease are different in different populations. Since 1990,The occurrence of MS has risen in various geographic areas, particularly in counties oflow and middle income, imposing significant health care and economic burden. Mostcases of MS are sporadic but 20% are acquired. Familial Multiple Sclerosis (FMS) ischaracterized by the presence of at least one affected family member, including thoserelated by first, second, or third-degree connections to the pro-bands. It is estimated tohave a global prevalence of approximately 12.6%. The prevalence of MS ranges widelyamong Arabs and is lower than in Western countries but the rate is expected to increaseover time and thus required the attention of the scientific world. The etiological featuresof the disorder are still unknown and extensive genetic level research is still required tomake progress in understanding the causation of the disease. Furthermore, futureinvestigations should include well-designed clinical trials examining the efficacy andsafety of licorice-derived drugs in MS patients to bridge the gap between preclinicaldiscoveries and clinical applications. These trials can provide useful insights into the realworldapplicability of licorice-based treatments, perhaps influencing their incorporationinto routine MS treatment procedures. This study will provide insight for futureresearchers who are willing to work in the area of medical genetics.