New
In a study published in the Journal Nature Genetics today, Prof. Richard Spritz, MD, Director of the Human Medical Genetics and Genomics Program at the University of Colorado, and a team of international researchers, - including VRF - announced new genetic links to vitiligo. Researchers conducted genome-wide association studies on 4,680 people with vitiligo and 39,586 control cases and found the genes that provide a framework for the genetic architecture and biological mechanisms of vitiligo. They also highlight relationships with other autoimmune diseases and melanoma.
By identifying new genes and specifics of gene regulations, the investigators can highlight and further investigate potential targets for treatment. A better understanding of the causes of vitiligo could also lead to breakthroughs in other conditions, such as: thyroid disease, pernicious anemia, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, Addison's disease and lupus. Read 'Genome-wide association studies of autoimmune vitiligo identify 23 new risk loci and highlight key pathways and regulatory variants'
FAQOther Questions
- Does vitiligo increase the risk of skin cancer?
No, it does not. Despite common misconceptions, people with vitiligo are actually at a lower risk of developing skin cancer, including both nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) and ma...
- Shall I take vitamin D for my vitiligo?
In Brief Vitamin D plays a central role in the prevention of different inflammatory and chronic diseases. Consuming 1,000–4,000 IU (25–100 mcg) of vitamin D3 daily should be id...
- Polypodium leucotomos as an adjunct treatment for vitiligo?
Extracts of the tropical fern Polypodium leucotomos appear to have beneficial properties for the vitiligious skin. Polypodium leucotomos (also classified as Polypodium aureum) a...
Though it is not always easy to treat vitiligo, there is much to be gained by clearly understanding the diagnosis, the future implications, treatment options and their outcomes.
Many people deal with vitiligo while remaining in the public eye, maintaining a positive outlook, and having a successful career.
Copyright (C) Bodolóczki JúliaBy taking a little time to fill in the anonymous questionnaire, you can help researchers better understand and fight vitiligo.