Genetics and Health

Filaggrin Gene and Eczema

by Hsien Hsien Lei, PhD on March 20th, 2006

Eczema is a concern for many families. More than half of parents I know worry endlessly over the red, scaly, oozy patches on their darling newborn and children (most eventually grow out of it). Adult friends affected with eczema suffer equally.

The new discovery of the filaggrin gene could explain why some people suffer from eczema. The gene encodes the filaggrin protein which is found in the upper layers of skin and helps to form a protective barrier that keeps moisture in and infectious organisms out.

• About 10 per cent of the population carry a single defective copy, and have dry and flaky skin.
• About 1 in 500 people, or 120,000 in Britain carry two defective copies of the gene. These people make no filaggrin and have a severe and persistent disease called ichthyosis vulgaris.

While gene-targeted therapy may not be available anytime soon, knowing the genes involved in causing eczema will help clarify the biological pathway leading to eczema. Appropriate therapies can then be developed to address any number of steps along the pathway.

The Times, March 20, 2006

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POSTED IN: Genetics of Disease