Loricrin and skin diseases

Loricrin, as the major component of the cornified envelope, plays an important role in epidermal barrier function. The expression of loricrin gene is co-regulated by complex interactions between multiple transcription factors. Loricrin gene mutations can lead to loricrin keratoderma. Nuclear translocation of mutant loricrin can interfere with terminal differentiation of keratinocytes, and cause corresponding clinical phenotypes. In addition, the expression of loricrin is decreased in lesions of atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, which may be attributed to some cytokines. Key words: Skin diseases; Gene expression regulation; Mutation; Psoriasis; Loricrin; Skin barrier