What have we learned from GWAS for atopic dermatitis

Abstract Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have revealed multiple loci associated with atopic dermatitis (AD). Some have confirmed pre-existing knowledge, including the role of skin barrier and type 2 inflammation in AD pathogenesis, whilst others have provided newer insights, including evidence of auto-immunity and previously unrecognized genes controlling epidermal differentiation. The majority of risk loci are in intergenic regions for which functional mechanism(s) remain unknown; these loci require detailed molecular studies, carried out in cells and tissues of relevance to AD. Genomic findings to date account for ∼30% of AD heritability, so considerable further work is needed to fully understand individual risk.