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Genetics of Vitiligo: A Review
Honghao He1, Rina Su1, Fang Liu1
1Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Medicine, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology
|March 6, 2026
Summary
Vitiligo, a polygenetic skin disease, involves genetic and environmental factors. Understanding these interactions aids in early screening and personalized treatments for vitiligo patients.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Genetics
- Immunology
Background:
- Vitiligo is a common acquired skin depigmentation disorder.
- It exhibits significant family aggregation, with 25-50% of patients having a positive family history.
- Vitiligo is recognized as a polygenetic disease with considerable genetic heterogeneity across populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the genetic and environmental factors contributing to vitiligo.
- To investigate the interaction mechanisms between genetic and environmental factors in disease development.
- To highlight the potential of risk assessment models for early screening and personalized vitiligo management.
Main Methods:
- Review of candidate gene studies and genome-wide association studies (GWAS).
- Analysis of genetic heterogeneity in different populations.
- Exploration of gene-environment interactions in vitiligo pathogenesis.
Main Results:
- Identification of multiple susceptibility gene loci for vitiligo.
- Evidence of significant genetic heterogeneity in vitiligo across diverse populations.
- Understanding of complex interactions between genetic predisposition and environmental triggers.
Conclusions:
- Genetic and environmental factors interplay in vitiligo development.
- Risk assessment models integrating genetic and environmental data offer a novel approach for early detection and tailored prevention strategies.
- Future research should utilize advanced multi-omics technologies for mechanistic insights and targeted therapies, alongside genetic counseling for high-risk groups.
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