Defects in the structure of proteins responsible for intercellular connections of the epithelium may contribute to the development of skin and food allergies, according to the journal Nature Genetics.
Scientists from the University of Tel Aviv (Israel) and Northwestern University in the US, conducting advanced genetic studies among members of two families, have identified a new rare allergic genetic disease caused by mutations of desmoglein 1 (DSG-1).
Desmoglein 1 is like the glue that holds the outer layers of skin cells together. The role of this molecule was mainly limited to ensuring the adherence of cells and creating a barrier preventing excessive water loss and providing protection against external factors. However, there are also many other proteins that form this barrier in a very structured way, which made us suspect that their functions are not limited to regulating cell adhesion, says one of the study authors, Dr. Kathleen Green.
The analysis showed that the dysfunction or absence of desmoglein 1 causes a disrupted barrier function and affects the expression of genes encoding cytokines, i.e. proteins that regulate the immune response, thereby contributing to the development of allergy.
Further research may reveal further relationships between defects in adhesion proteins and different types of allergies (PAP).
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