Filaggrin (FLG) (FLG)

Filaggrin is a structural protein vital for epidermal barrier function in human skin. Synthesized as the precursor profilaggrin, it is stored in keratohyalin granules in the upper epidermis. During terminal differentiation, profilaggrin is dephosphorylated and cleaved to release monomeric filaggrin, which aggregates keratin intermediate filaments, leading to flattened, hardened skin cells that form an effective barrier. Degradation of filaggrin contributes to production of the "natural moisturizing factor" (NMF), crucial for skin hydration and pH maintenance. Loss-of-function mutations in the FLG gene are a principal genetic cause for ichthyosis vulgaris and a major predisposing factor for atopic dermatitis (eczema), as well as increased risk of asthma and possibly other allergic conditions. There is currently no approved pharmacological modulator of filaggrin; research and clinical efforts focus on barrier repair strategies and genetic counseling in at-risk individuals.

Other names

ProfilaggrinFLG

Not applicable; no direct approved modulators of filaggrin. Experimental approaches include barrier repair creams, emollients, or agents used to increase skin hydration or mimic natural moisturizing factor.