Genes Responsible for the Skin Function
There is the FLG gene [1] whose job is to instruct cells to make a large protein called filaggrin in the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis). The epidermis requires enough protein for it to be able to maintain your skin barriers function. A healthy skin barrier is able to support moisture retention and protect your body from foreign invaders, such as bacteria, toxins, and allergens.
Study has shown that in about 50% of people in eczema, the FLG gene has a mutation in its DNA sequence that causes it to instruct cells to make less filaggrin. When the epidermis is lacking filaggrin, it can lead to dry and uncomfortable skin that is prone to cause infection and allergic reactions.
Another gene that is responsible for the skin function is the SPINK5. [2] The SPINK5 gene is also responsible for instructing cells to make proteins in the skin and study has shown that mutation in this gene is prevalent in people that have eczema. It’s not yet understood why this mutation has an impact.