Search for the psoriasis susceptibility gene: The Newfoundland study

The authors review early pioneering research on the genetics of psoriasis a nd recently published independent and collaborative investigations searchin g for the psoriasis susceptibility genes. We describe the research design a nd current plans for a joint pursuit between the Psoriasis Research Institu te, the Memorial University of Newfoundland, and Chiroscience R&D, Inc., fo r susceptibility genes. A unique study sample from Newfoundland, drawn from affected and unaffected members or multiplex families and relatives, provi des a nearly homogeneous isolated population. Families reflect English, Sco ttish, and Irish ancestry, and have been ih residence in Newfoundland for o ver 300 years. The prevalence of psoriasis is estimated to be 2 to 3%. Fami lial psoriasis occurs in over 85% of families, with at least one affected m ember. The experimental strategy using linkage analysis and linkage disequi librium analysis of the collected tissue bank are discussed, emphasizing pr ospects for the future outcome of the research findings.