What have we learned from GWAS for atopic dermatitis?

GWASs have revealed multiple loci associated with atopic dermatitis (AD). Some have confirmed pre-existing knowledge, including the role of skin barrier and type 2 inflammation in AD pathogenesis, whereas others have provided newer insights, including evidence of autoimmunity and previously unrecognized genes controlling epidermal differentiation. The majority of risk loci are in intergenic regions for which functional mechanism(s) remain unknown. These loci require detailed molecular studies carried out in cells and tissues of relevance to AD. Genomic findings to date account for ∼30% of AD heritability, therefore, considerable further work is needed to fully understand individual risk.