Gene defect linked to allergic disorders

Defects in a particular gene may increase the risk of developing allergic disorders, a new study has found.

According to researchers from the University of Edinburgh, defects in the filaggrin gene significantly increased the risk of developing allergic sensitisation, atopic eczema, allergic rhinitis, and asthma in people with eczema.

Eczema is a group of skin complaints that can occur anywhere on the body. An estimated one in 10 people in Ireland are affected at some point in their lives. Symptoms can include an itchy, scaly red rash.

The research, which analysed the results of 24 studies, found that the link between filaggrin gene mutations and atopic eczema was particularly strong.

Filaggrin gene mutations also increased the risk of asthma in people with atopic eczema.

“These findings provide strong evidence that the filaggrin gene defect may be the fundamental predisposing factor not only for the development of eczema but also for the initial sensitisation and progression of allergic disease,” the researchers said.

Further studies now need to explore whether filaggrin can be used to identify those at high risk, the researchers added.

The study was published on the British Medical Journal.

[Posted: Fri 10/07/2009]