A Systems Approach to Understanding Disease Processes in Multiple Sclerosis

This pilot study will establish a proof of concept for using a systems biology approach to characterize the dynamics of MS disease processes. The primary objective of the study is to identify multi-omic (genetic, proteomic, biochemical and/or microbial) factors that correlate with clinical and subclinical MS disease activity. Identification of such biomarkers could have an immediate clinical utility in identification of MS patients prone to more aggressive disease earlier in their disease course, thus affording the opportunity to better individualize therapy. In addition, insights from better understanding of the complex interplay of various systems biology factors should improve our understanding of MS in general. The study will recruit 14 patients with relapsing MS who are initiating treatment with ocrelizumab, and follow them for 30 months.