MSBS
2009: Genetic-Epigenetic Basis of Skin Diseases
Program
Chair:
Angela M. Christiano,
Ph.D.
Columbia University The
2009 Montagna Symposium on the Biology of Skin examined
both genetic and epigenetic aspects of normal skin
and of skin diseases such as ectodermal dysplasias,
ichthyoses, epidermolysis bullosa, pachyonychia congenita,
copper transport diseases, alopecia areata, psoriasis,
and atopic dermatitis, as well as melanocyte diseases
and cancers of skin and skin appendages. Topics included
genetic basis of both Mendelian and polygenic disorders
and epigenetic phenomena, such as miRNAs and chromatin
modification. The program covered genetic and epigenetic
roles in development and their relationship to skin
cancers and will explore how mouse models of genetic
disease and epigenetic phenomena enrich our understanding
of genetic susceptibilities, causes and treatments
of skin disease. Participants also discussed strategies
for novel therapies for skin diseases, such as siRNAs
and drug targets, that have emerged from genetic studies.
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