Genetic aspects of atopy and atopic dermatitis

This review presents updated evidence on the genetic basis of atopy and atopic dermatitis. The etiology of atopic processes remains partially unknown but is likely to result from multifactorial inheritance, with an interaction between genetic and environmental factors. It seems that at least two major mechanisms, non-antigen specific and antigen specific, regulate the immune response to environmental allergens in humans. While many of environmental components have been studied for years, only recently significant progress has been made in identifying the genes responsible for susceptibility or expression of atopic diseases. Genome-wide screens in various populations have identified the locations of susceptibility genes for asthma and atopy as well as associated phenotypes such as bronchial hyperresponsiveness and increased total IgE concentrations typical for patients suffering from atopic dermatitis. Further research on genetic and environmental relationships is necessary for better understanding of atopic processes and development of new therapeutic approaches.