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Skin Inflammation Genetics Group

The Skin Inflammation Genetics Group is led by Dr Francesca Capon

Our main research interests are:

  • The genetic basis of rare and common forms of psoriasis, which we investigate as readily accessible models of inflammation.
  • The role of interleukin-36 in tissue-specific and systemic inflammation

We carry out both genetic (whole-exome sequencing) and functional studies (transcriptomics, in-vitro assays, ex-vivo analyses of patient cells), as we believe that this integrated approach has a unique potential to provide novel insights into inflammatory processes.

Current group photo:

Capon group

Members

Natashia Benzian-Olsson

Natashia Benzian-Olsson

NIHR Pre-Doctoral Fellow

Francesca Capon

Francesca Capon

Reader in Inflammation Genetics

Down syndrome & Alzheimer's gene

The genetic basis of pustular skin disease

We have been pursuing the identification of genes that are mutated in pustular psoriasis (PP), a rare, but very severe variant of psoriasis. Using a combination of whole-exome sequencing, candidate gene studies and in-vitro functional assays, we have identified three genes (IL36RN, CARD14 and AP1S3), which are associated with the disease. We are also interested in genotype-phenotype correlations. We have established a partnership with the European Rare And Severe Psoriasis Expert Network (ERASPEN), which has enabled us to pool our resources and generate an extended patient dataset.

blood cells

The role of interleukin-36 in skin and systemic inflammation

By combining transcriptomic studies of normal keratinocytes with ex-vivo stimulations of skin explants, we have demonstrated that IL-36 is a key disease driver in plaque (common) and pustular psoriasis. We are carrying out further studies in neutrophils and whole blood, to better understand the systemic effects of IL-36.

blood plasma

The role of interleukin-1 in palmar plantar pustulosis

A clinical trial led by Professor Smith at St John’s Institute of Dermatology is investigating the efficiency of IL-1 blockade in palmar plantar pustulosis (a localised form of pustular psoriasis that affects the palms and soles). We are carrying out parallel mechanistic studies, to assess the pathogenic role of IL-1 by means of skin and blood transcriptomics.

View all publications

Dr Satveer Mahil
Dr Dorottya Berki
Dr Maria Quaranta
Dr Alexandros Onoufriadis
Dr Anna Bertoni
Dr Niovi Setta-Kaffetzi
Dr Sophie Twelves

Our partners

National Institute for Health Research

Medical Research Council

Psoriasis Association