Several hereditary human diseases are now known to be caused by distinct mutations in genes encoding various desmosome components. Although the effects of some of these mutant genes have been analysed by targeted disruption experiments in mouse models, little is known about the cell and tissue changes in affected human patients.
Striate palmoplantar keratoderma arising from desmoplakin and desmoglein 1 mutations is associated with contrasting perturbations of desmosomes and the keratin filament network.
Genetic Skin Disease Group, Divison of Skin Scinces, The Rayne Institute, Guy's, King's and St Thomas' School of Medicine, St Thomas' Hospital, Lambeth Palace Road, London SE1 7EH, UK.
