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Review
. 2025 Mar;117(3):45-51.
doi: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2025.01.004. Epub 2025 Jan 22.

Genetics and epigenetics in vitiligo

Ken Okamura  1 , Tamio Suzuki  2
Affiliations
Review

Genetics and epigenetics in vitiligo

Ken Okamura et al. J Dermatol Sci. 2025 Mar.

Abstract

Vitiligo, a complex autoimmune disorder characterized by melanocyte destruction, arises from an intricate interplay of genetic, epigenetic, immune, and environmental factors. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified over 50 susceptibility loci, including key genes within the MHC region and those involved in immunity, oxidative stress, and melanogenesis. Concurrently, epigenetic research has unraveled regulatory networks critical to vitiligo pathogenesis, with a focus on DNA methylation and non-coding RNAs (e.g., microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs). These advancements provide deeper insights into gene regulation, immune processes, and cellular dynamics. This review integrates findings from genetic and epigenetic studies to offer a comprehensive understanding of molecular mechanisms of vitiligo, paving the way for innovative, personalized therapeutic approaches.

Keywords: Autoimmune diseases; Epigenetics; Genetics; Genome-wide association study; Noncoding RNA; Vitiligo.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declaration of Competing Interest The author has no conflict of interest to declare.