Which antigen is specifically associated with Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective coverings of nerve fibers in the central nervous system. The relationship between certain human leukocyte antigen (HLA) types and susceptibility to MS has been a subject of study for some time.

HLA-DR2 is specifically associated with an increased risk for developing MS. It is believed that this antigen may influence T-cell responses that are involved in the autoimmune process characteristic of MS, thus contributing to the disease's pathogenesis. Individuals with the HLA-DR2 genotype may have an altered immune response that predisposes them to react against myelin, the substance that insulates nerve fibers.

The other antigens listed do not have a strong association with Multiple Sclerosis. For example, HLA-B27 is related to other conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis, and HLA-A11 does not have a significant link to MS. HLA-DR1 has also been studied but does not show a specific connection comparable to HLA-DR2 for MS susceptibility. This reinforces the importance of HLA-DR2 as a known factor in the pathophysiology of Multiple Sclerosis.