Scientists make psoriasis breakthrough
New research may help experts create treatments for psoriasis
People suffering from psoriasis could benefit from the publication of new research which suggests the possible causes of the skin condition.
Researchers at the University of Michigan's Department of Dermatology and its School of Public Health worked with partners across the globe to examine the genetics of thousands of people suffering from the disease.
They then also looked at the genetic makeup of people without the condition and compared the results.
It was revealed that while no single genetic variation could be linked to the disease, several of them working in tandem may cause it.
Goncalo Abecasis, Co-principal Investigator on the project, said: "This discovery highlights the role of several genes in mediating the immune responses that result in psoriasis."
He added that the genes responsible could be targeted through treatment, in turn helping the 2% to 3% of the UK population who currently suffer from psoriasis.
Healthcare company Abbott recently launched a UK arm of the global Psoriasis Uncovered survey, which aims to highlight the impact of the condition on sufferers.
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Further reading about psoriasis
What causes it, the symptoms and the treatment - find out everything you need to know here.
