The genes encoding proteins involved in the regulation of the immune system are associated with the development of vitiligo, US and Chinese scientists report in two independent papers published in Nature Genetic.
Vitiligo is a popular autoimmune disease caused by the chronically progressive breakdown of skin pigment cells, i.e. melanocytes, leaving the characteristic white discolored patches on the skin and hair.
Richard Spritz and colleagues from the University of Colorado studied the genetic material of North America and Europe in search of genes related to the occurrence of vitiligo. They discovered two new DNA regions involved in the development of the disease, including genes called FOXP1 and CCR6 known for their role in regulating the body’s immune system.
In the pages of the second paper, the Xue-Jun Zhang team from Anhui Medical University described the results of a study of the Chinese population. Scientists discovered 3 additional DNA regions associated with vitiligo, including genes encoding major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins that play a key role in many autoimmune diseases. (PAP)