Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry produces new MS findings

Research using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry has resulted in contradictory findings about the link between cholesterol compounds and multiple sclerosis (MS).

The study was carried out at Sweden's Karolinska Institutet and published in the January Journal of Lipid Research showed that oxysterols are not present in significant amounts in sufferers as previously suggested, the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) reports.

Following analysis of blood samples using a combination of gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, these steroid molecules were not found in any meaningful levels in either healthy individuals or MS patients.

Samples were vaporised to separate molecules into component parts so concentrations could be identified.

Lead researcher Ingemar Bjorkhem commented that as a result of the new findings, the potential role of oxysterols in diagnosing sufferers needs to be reconsidered.

The ASBMB was founded in 1906 and the scientific and educational organisation has more than 12,000 members.