Ectodysplasin A (EDA) Signaling: From Skin Appendage to Multiple Diseases

The document discusses the role of Ectodysplasin A (EDA) signaling in various diseases. EDA signaling, initially identified as a regulator of skin appendage formation, is implicated in hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (HED), various types of cancer, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Mutations in EDA can cause HED, a congenital hereditary disease characterized by malformation of skin appendages. In cancer, EDA and its receptors can influence cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, and migration, potentially affecting tumorigenesis and cancer progression. EDA signaling has also been implicated in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and type II diabetes by regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. The document concludes by highlighting the need for further studies on the molecular mechanism and distinct roles of EDA signaling in numerous diseases.