Scientists have discovered genetic links that could put them closer to finding better treatments for a range of diseases, including multiple sclerosis, juvenile diabetes, lupus and arthritis.

Their genetic research has led to a road map pinpointing the origins of 21 such autoimmune diseases. The disorders are caused when the body’s immune system that is supposed to protect it, mistakenly attacks healthy tissues or organs. The genetic blueprint resulting from this research could lead to the discovery of drugs that target more than one disease.

Researchers have identified as many as 100 autoimmune diseases that affect hundreds of millions of people around the world. Of these, the biological underpinnings of 21 common diseases have now been identified.

Reference:
http://www.voanews.com/content/genetic-origins-autoimmune-diseases/2501324.html