Episode 27, part 1 - Psoriasis & Research | The Future of Dermatology Podcast

Summary

In this episode, Dr. Wilson Liao discusses the genetics and environmental triggers of psoriasis. He highlights the significant progress made in identifying psoriasis genes and how they relate to the different types and severity of psoriasis. Dr. Liao also explores the connection between psoriasis genes and therapeutic response, as well as the potential for precision medicine in psoriasis treatment. The conversation delves into the evolutionary persistence of psoriasis and its survival advantage in fighting off viruses. The role of environmental triggers, such as obesity, diet, and smoking, is also examined. Additionally, Dr. Liao and Chandler Johnson discuss their current research studies, including the Skin Tracker Project and capillary blood testing. In this conversation, Dr. Wilson Liao and Chandler Johnson discuss various research projects and clinical trials in dermatology. They explore the use of RNA and proteins in research, the importance of studying multiple aspects of autoimmune disease, and ongoing psoriasis survey studies. They also delve into the impact of menopause on psoriasis and the relationship between sleep and psoriasis.

 

Takeaways

• Significant progress has been made in identifying over 100 psoriasis genes, which has led to a better understanding of the different types and severity of psoriasis.
• Genetic testing can help predict therapeutic response and guide treatment decisions, with the potential for precision medicine in psoriasis.
• Psoriasis genes may have persisted evolutionarily due to their role in fighting off viruses, as seen in the similarities between psoriasis patients and HIV non-progressors.
• Environmental triggers, such as obesity, diet, and smoking, can contribute to the development and severity of psoriasis.
• Current research studies, including the Skin Tracker Project and capillary blood testing, aim to improve accessibility to clinical trials and provide insights into the molecular mechanisms of psoriasis. Research in dermatology involves studying RNA, proteins, and multiple aspects of autoimmune disease.
• Psoriasis survey studies are being conducted to explore the impact of menopause and sleep on psoriasis.

Help us understand how psoriasis affects you

Help Us Understand More About Sleep and Psoriasis Are you interested in helping researchers understand how psoriasis and sleep are related?

Please consider taking our paid online survey. Recruiting both individuals with and without psoriasis. https://redcap.ucsf.edu/surveys/?s=RLFR379LNL4RFTTF

 

Help Us Understand About Menopause and Psoriasis Are you interested in helping researchers understand how psoriasis and menopause are related?

Please consider taking our paid online survey. Recruiting post-menopausal women with psoriasis. https://redcap.ucsf.edu/surveys/?s=JYTNX3XKDC84J3DX