O'Gorman, CullenTaylor, Bruce VLucas, Robyn2015-12-071422-0067http://hdl.handle.net/1885/21482Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disabling disease of the central nervous system commonly affecting young adults. Pathologically, there are patches of inflammation (plaques) with demyelination of axons and oligodendrocyte loss. There is a global latitude gradient in MS prevalence, and incidence of MS is increasing (particularly in females). These changes suggest a major role for environmental factors in causation of disease. We have reviewed the evidence and potential mechanisms of action for three exposures: vitamin D, Epstein Barr virus and cigarette smoking. Recent advances supporting gene-environment interactions are reviewed. Further research is needed to establish mechanisms of causality in humans and to explore preventative strategies.Keywords: cytochrome; cytochrome P450 27B1; HLA DR15 antigen; oxygenase; unclassified drug; vitamin D; cell function; CYP27B1 gene; disease association; disease course; DNA polymorphism; environmental exposure; environmental factor; Epstein Barr virus infection; ev Demyelination; Epidemiology; Epstein-barr virus; Gene-environment interaction; Latitude; Multiple sclerosis; Smoking; Vitamin D201210.3390/ijms1309117182016-02-24