Filaggrin Gene Loss-of-Function Mutations and Exposure to Endocrine Disrupting Environmental Chemicals

Abstract

Treatment of atopic and xerotic skin requires maintenance of skin hydration through daily use of personal care products that most often contain several classes of chemicals not directly needed for the treatment. FLG loss-of-function mutation carriers could be expected to have higher internal exposure to such additive chemicals for two reasons: increased use of personal care products due to xerotic and inflamed skin and/or increased absorption of chemicals through a compromised skin barrier. Phthalates are man-made chemicals used in a wide range of consumer products, including moisturizers and other cosmetics, and are known to be reproductive toxicants in animals. A recent study found that in a group of healthy men, those men with loss-of-function FLG mutations had significantly higher urinary concentrations of phthalate metabolites compared with the “normal” genotype men. Phthalates constitute only one group of chemicals where dermal uptake is an important route of exposure, and it is possible that special attention to transepidermal absorption of many other chemicals, and perhaps topically applied medication in general, may be warranted in FLG mutation carriers.