A study suggests that following a Mediterranean-style diet may be linked to a reduced likelihood of developing multiple sclerosis (MS). Researchers identified that differences in DNA methylation could partially explain this association. The findings were published in the Multiple Sclerosis Journal and are part of the Ausimmune case-control study conducted in Australia.
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The study indicates that variations in DNA methylation may account for approximately one-third of the connection between adherence to Mediterranean diet patterns and MS onset risk. DNA methylation involves biological processes that regulate whether certain genes are activated or silenced. Notably, the identified methylation sites are connected to genes that play roles in immune function.
The researchers emphasized that more studies are necessary to confirm these results and the underlying mechanisms. MS is a chronic condition that occurs when the immune system attacks myelin, which protects nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. Environmental and lifestyle factors, alongside genetics, contribute to MS risk, and dietary patterns significantly impact overall health and chronic disease development.
The Mediterranean diet, known for its emphasis on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and healthy fats, has been linked to various health benefits. Past research has suggested a possible connection between this diet and lower MS risk, although the precise mechanisms remain unclear. Potential factors include inflammation, cellular stress, fat metabolism changes, and gut microbiome alterations.
In the study, researchers examined data from 201 MS patients and 342 healthy participants who filled out food frequency questionnaires about their dietary habits. They calculated diet scores reflecting the participants' adherence to specific patterns. Higher aMED-Red scores, a modified Mediterranean diet score, correlated with significantly lower odds of MS onset, as did higher Healthy diet scores reflecting diets rich in fish, poultry, eggs, and vegetables.
The researchers also evaluated the relationship between diet scores and DNA methylation patterns. They focused on 2,432 methylation sites previously linked to early signs of MS, organizing them into five clusters. Significant associations were found between the Mediterranean diet scores and one particular cluster, the A5 module, which is related to immune activity regulation.
The A5 module encompassed 35 DNA methylation sites associated with genes involved in immune responses, including T and B cell activation. The statistical analysis indicated that this module accounted for about 30% of the connection between aMED scores and MS onset and around 22% for aMED-Red scores. The researchers concluded that while further investigation is needed, DNA methylation patterns could represent mechanisms through which the Mediterranean diet may modulate MS risk.