Mapping of a Novel Locus for Keratosis Follicularis Squamosa on Chromosome 7p14.3–7p12.1

In a study involving a five-generation Chinese family with 69 individuals, where 23 were affected by Keratosis follicularis squamosa (KFS), researchers identified a new genetic locus for KFS on chromosome 7p14.3-7p12.1. The study focused on 23 family members, including 11 KFS patients and 12 healthy individuals, and utilized genome-wide linkage analysis with microsatellite markers. The most significant linkage was found with a LOD score of 4.51 at marker D7S691, and the KFS gene was localized to a 19.28 cM interval between markers D7S484 and D7S2422, which contains about 159 genes. Additionally, the authors discussed the creation of immortalized human dermal papilla cells (DPCs) by transfecting them with SV40T antigen and c-myc gene, which maintained their hair growth-promoting properties, potentially aiding future hair biology research and treatment development for hair loss conditions.