Scientists discover new areas of DNA linked to psoriasis Gene
mapping uncovers genetic variations that increase risk of
psoriasis In an international collaboration, scientists
identified 15 new areas in our DNA, known as loci, which are
associated with the development of psoriasis. Using a new
research tool called an Immunochip, the group, including
National Psoriasis Foundation-funded scientists Dr. James Elder
of the University of Michigan and geneticist Anne Bowcock of
Washington University in St. Louis, reanalyzed samples from
previous genetic studies to identify variations in the genes
that may increase psoriasis susceptibility. This new technology
allows researchers to provide a more detailed map of the genes
than previously was possible, making it feasible to understand
why some people are more likely to develop psoriasis than
others, and to suggest targets for new and better treatments.
The research, published in Nature Genetics, expanded on several
genome-wide association studies—large studies that c