Genetics

Genetic mechanisms control all aspects of skin biology and provide an opportunity to understand the fundamental ‘root cause’ of disease. We also aim to use this understanding for the development of more specifically-targeted treatments for the future. The Brown lab uses a range of techniques from population-based genetic epidemiology to human skin cell and organoid culture with molecular genetic assessment to understand the genetic and epigenetic effects determining risk for atopic eczema.  Professor Mark Arends works on the pathology and genomics of skin tumours, including malignant melanoma, in the MRC-funded DERMATLAS project and Professor Albert Tenesa studies the genetics of hair and skin colour.

Brown Lab