BelSU researchers identified a gene that predispose eczema development

The researchers of BelSU Medical Institute conducted a study to identify genetic factors for women’s eczema.

According to Professor Mikhail Churnosov, the Head of the Department of Biomedical Disciplines, one of the most significant risk factors for eczema is the filaggrin (FLG) gene which plays a key role in the development of epidermis and skin barrier and encodes a structural protein being a substantial element in the corneal layer.

The Department of Biomedical Disciplines carried out a study of gender-specific associations of filaggrin gene polymorphism with the development of eczema that enabled to assess the data obtained from the ethnic group consisting of over 900 women and over 400 men who were born and resided in the central region of Russia.

According to Professor Churnosov, the revealed differences in the factors of the disease development in case of men and women may be referred to reproductive hormones influence. The scientist reported that the specific mechanisms of the impact of phylaggrin gene polymorphism on eczema development require further study, so the research will be continued.

It should be noted that the genetic research of the scientists of Belgorod State University was supported by a grant from the President of the Russian Federation. Taking into account the prospects of genetic research which enable to transfer to personalized medicine it is planned to establish a research institute of genetics on the basis of Belgorod State University.