Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 29, 2026

Cell Lineage Analyses and Gene Function Studies Using Twin-spot MARCM
Published on: March 2, 2017
Genetic associations and shared environmental effects on the skin microbiome of Korean twins
Jiyeon Si1, Sunghee Lee1, Jin Mo Park2
1Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, 151-742, Korea.
Background:
The skin is the outermost layer of the human body and one of the key sites for host-microbe interactions. Both environmental and host genetic factors influence microbial communities in distinct anatomical niches, but little is known about their interplay in shaping the skin microbiome. Here, we investigate the heritable components of the skin microbiome and their association with host genetic factors.
Results:
Based on our analysis of the microbiota from 45 individuals including monozygotic and dizygotic twins aged 26-55 years and their mothers, we found that skin microbial diversity was significantly influenced by age and skin pigmentation. Heritability analysis revealed genetic and shared environmental impacts on the skin microbiome. Furthermore, we observed a strong association between the abundance of Corynebacterium jeikeium and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the host FLG gene related to epidermal barrier function.
Conclusion:
This study reveals an intimate association of the human skin microbiome and host genes, and increases our understanding of the role of human genetic factors in establishing a microbial ecosystem on the body surface.
Related Concept Videos
The Skin Microbiota
Gene-Environment Interactions
Behavioral Genetics and Its Designs
The primary methodologies used in behavior genetics include family studies, twin studies, and adoption studies, each providing unique...
Introduction to the Human Microbiota
Background and Environment Affect Phenotype
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...
Polygenic Traits

