Psoriasis influences about 2~3% of people worldwide, and sometimes is associated with other serious health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and depression. Psoriasis, which severely reduces the quality of life, is incurable so far although the new interleukin inhibition treatment can reduce the symptoms.
Psoriasis is thought to be a genetic disease that is triggered by environmental factors. More than 80 psoriasis susceptibility genes were reported. But still, these genes cannot explain all the cases. Here, we found a large three-generation family with features of psoriasis and lupus. Through genome sequencing analysis, some genetic mutations were linked to the psoriasis phenotype. These mutations are different from documented genetic variations in psoriasis or lupus. We aim to identify causal mutations in the family.
UK Biobank cohort involves the largest number of participants with genetic and clinical information and offers unparalleled opportunities for genetic studies. With the access to UK Biobank resource, identifying causal mutations can be greatly accelerated.
Finding causal mutations in familial psoriasis will increase the understanding of the pathogenesis of psoriasis disease and provide the target for new treatment.
The study will continue for 2 years.