I just got my packet for the Multiple Sclerosis Genetic Susceptibility Project that the researchers at the University of California at San Francisco is doing. I was wondering if anyone else is participating in this.

All it entails is giving a blood sample. But, I am wondering if a family member (parent, sibling, etc.) would need to participate. I spoke to my parents and both are willing to participate. Does anyone know if this is the study that involves family members?

If it's the one I'm thinking of, yes the family gives blood as well.

My parents agreed to do this, I called them a few times and got a busy signal or full voice mail message each time, so I gave up.

Give them a call and ask for clarification.

Trish, I just dropped mine in the mailbox tonight.

The info I read said that it just needed blood from someone for a "control" sample. It can just be a friend. They didn't even suggest a relative.

I would think that if it is a genetic study they would need a relative to participate. How else could they study the genetics. LOL

Maybe they will ask for that when the coordinator calls or what ever that thing said. LOL.

I am glad to hear you are doing it too!

dmplaura - I am glad to hear you are doing it too. I did call the facility in my state that is helping with the study. The girl had no idea but, like me, felt that a blood relative participating is important when studying genetics. We'll see what happens.

Hi tkrik,
I rec'd mine today. It says spouse or friend. They want to test your DNA and do a complete genetic workup of YOU. It is costly, but not to you or the control person you select to send a sample in too. You don't have to send more than yours if you don't want to. They would just like it. They get control blood that way. Helpful to them.

This person should not have MS. Only you, relatives not allowed the DNA is too close. They will match the two of you, up all the way in your DNA code, for anything that pops out of your MS being in any way genetic. Like maybe a relative of yours on either side Maternal or Paternal had MS and can be linked to your DNA being passed down. That could be even in the 1800's or longer. Your heritage will be in the test.

They send you a free blood draw coupon and shipping for the any lab that you want. Then it is shipped in a Federal Express box to them. Again no cost to you. I plan on doing it. You can be on any med. It does not matter. It is private, but we will not know our own results. Darn it!

I assume the NARCOMS study will print it in their booklet eventually. Just the results.
Lady

Thanks Lady! My packet didn't say anything about that. Either way, I'm doing it. Now, to convince DBF to give a little blood. LOL He'll do it.

I do hope NARCOMS prints the results. I love reading that stuff. It is so cool (at least to me) and I get such a charge out of it.