The role of filaggrin in atopic dermatitis and allergic disease

Abstract Objective To provide an overview of filaggrin biology and the role of filaggrin variants in atopic dermatitis (AD) and allergic disease. Data Sources We performed a PubMed literature review consisting mainly of studies relating to filaggrin in the last 5 years. Study Selections We selected articles that were found in PubMed using the search terms filaggrin, atopic dermatitis, skin barrier, and atopy. Results Filaggrin plays an important role in the development of AD and allergic disease. Novel methods in measuring filaggrin expression and identifying filaggrin mutations aid in stratifying this patient cohort. We review new insights into understanding the role of filaggrin in AD and allergic disease. Conclusion Filaggrin remains a very important player in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis and allergic disease. This review looks at recent studies that aid our understanding of this crucial epidermal protein.