Eczema In Infancy May Be Linked To Cat Ownership In Those With A Specific Gene Mutation

A gene mutation and cat exposure at birth may increase a child’s risk of developing eczema during their first year according to a new study. Researchers led by Professor Hans Bisgaard (University Hospital Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark) studied the association between mutations in the filaggrin gene (FLG) and exposure to environmental factors with the development of eczema.

Eczema runs in families and evidence suggests it is caused by genetic and environmental factors. The same researchers recently discovered that two common “loss-of-function” variants in the gene encoding filaggrin (FLG) predispose people to eczema. Filaggrin is a protective protein normally found in skin. It acts as a physical barrier to potentially harmful substances in the environment. The researchers hypothesized that inheriting one or two defective FLG genes might weaken their physical barrier, affecting their response to environmental substances.

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Tagged as: Animals, Cats, Copenhagen, Denmark, Eczema, Filaggrin, Pets, University Hospital Gentofte