Gene Update: Discovery of Potential Psoriasis Gene in Sweden
First posted Oct. 18, 2002
In early October 2002, researchers in Sweden announced the discovery of a gene that they believe has a role in making some people susceptible to psoriasis. The National Psoriasis Foundation is very encouraged by the report, and is continuing its work in the GeneFind program to find other genes that cause psoriasis.
What is known about genes and psoriasis?
Psoriasis is commonly understood to be caused by several different genes. However, the Swedish study could be a very important step into understanding more about the genetic puzzle pieces that cause psoriasis. While some genetic diseases are caused by a single genetic mutation, researchers believe that several genes are at work in psoriasis.
For example, about 6 out of 10 people with psoriasis carry virtually the same genetic marker on chromosome 6, which is believed to have a role in psoriasis. But some people who carry the same chromosome do not get psoriasis. Why, then, do they not get the disease? Researchers believe other genes are at work to cause psoriasis. In fact, researchers have discovered at least 8 other locations on chromosomes that are linked to psoriasis (chromosomes 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 16, 17 and 20).
What are researchers doing next?
Currently, researchers at Washington University in St. Louis, the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor and at several European centers are working on promising research on chromosome 6, the chromosome believed to be the home of a gene that plays a significant role in psoriasis.
The reported Swedish gene finding has not yet been replicated by any other researchers, but if this research is confirmed, it could help uncover the genetic nature of psoriasis. It also eventually could help scientists develop safe and effective new treatments. The NPF has actively supported and facilitated genetics research for nearly 15 years, and is confident that many exciting discoveries are in the near future.
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