Gene mutation discovery might help improve eczema treatment

LONDON - A gene called 'filaggrin' undergoes different mutations in people from differing ethnic backgrounds and leads to dry skin, eczema and skin ailments, researchers from the Dundee University have found. The discovery has the potential to accelerate treatments for eczema of the skin.Lead researcher Professor Irwin McLean and colleagues had already found that defects in filaggrin were the cause of eczema. Now they have discovered that mutations in this gene are not uniform in people from all ethnic backgrounds. Some 15 different mutations have so far been identified in the gene.The findings are described in detail in the journal NatureMcLean's team has worked in conjunction with Dr Alan Irvine in Dublin in identifying the gene and its different mutations. Any person with only one mutation has a 60 percent risk of developing eczema, the team reported. However people with two mutations almost certainly develop eczema, the team added."Once we cracked this exceptionally difficult gene, we were surprised to learn how many different defects in filaggrin were waiting to be discovered, not only in European people, but other populations worldwide," McLean said.Eczema is a disease that affects one in five UK children. With the knowledge of these mutations doctors can start treatment protocols early.