035 Biogeographical differences in gene segment usage

Abstract

Biogeography is known to shape the human skin metagenome, which in turn, helps to shape the adaptive immune system. Clearly, immune-mediated diseases (e.g. hidradenitis, lichen planus, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, palmoplantar psoriasis/pustulosis) have predilections for specific anatomical sites (axillae, groin, and inguinal folds; dorsal hands, volar wrists, anterior lower legs and oral mucosa; antecubital fossa and popliteal fossa; elbows and knees; and palms and soles; respectively). A better understanding of how immune composition and function differs by anatomic location remains a major gap in our understanding of skin immunology.