The gene discovered by British scientists is responsible for the disease that causes keratinization of the skin, reports Nature Genetics.
The team of prof. Irwin Mc Lean of the University of Dundee investigated the role of a gene called p34 in a disease called hand and foot keratosis using the latest sequencing techniques. Hard and painful layers of keratinized tissue appear on the skin of affected persons. In severe cases, their presence on the feet may even make it impossible to walk.
When the function of the p34 gene is disturbed or inactive, the skin grows too quickly, which causes characteristic changes. When the gene is working properly, the skin is normal.
The authors of the study hope that understanding the gene’s mechanism of action will make it easier to detect the disease and treat it more effectively. (PAP)
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