DSG1
This gene encodes a member of the desmoglein protein subfamily. Desmogleins, along with desmocollins, are cadherin-like transmembrane glycoproteins that are major components of the desmosome. Desmosomes are cell-cell junctions that help resist shearing forces and are found in high concentrations in cells subject to mechanical stress. This gene is found in a cluster with other desmoglein family members on chromosome 18. The encoded protein has been identified as a target of auto-antibodies in the autoimmune skin blistering disease pemphigus foliaceus. Disruption of this gene has also been associated with the skin diseases palmoplantar keratoderma and erythroderma. [provided by RefSeq, Feb 2015]
Involvement in disease
Palmoplantar keratoderma 1, striate, focal, or diffuse (PPKS1):
A dermatological disorder characterized by thickening of the skin on the palms and soles, and longitudinal hyperkeratotic lesions on the palms, running the length of each finger.
Erythroderma, congenital, with palmoplantar keratoderma, hypotrichosis, and hyper IgE (EPKHE):
A syndrome characterized by severe dermatitis, multiple allergies and metabolic wasting. Clinical features include erythroderma, yellowish papules and plaques arranged at the periphery of the palms, along the fingers and over weight-bearing areas of the feet, skin erosions and scaling, and hypotrichosis. Additionally, patients manifest severe food allergies, elevated immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels and recurrent infections with marked metabolic wasting.