Identification of first genetic mutations linked to atopic dermatitis in African-American children

Two specific genetic variations in people of African descent are responsible for persistent atopic dermatitis (AD), an itchy, inflammatory form of the skin disorder eczema. A new report by researchers in the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania found that loss-of-function mutations to Filaggrin-2 (FLG2), a gene that creates a protein responsible for retaining moisture and protecting the skin from environmental irritants, were associated with atopic dermatitis in African American children...
Source: Health News from Medical News Today - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Eczema / Psoriasis Source Type: news