Sequencing the Dandruff Genome
Scientists from P&G Beauty have successfully sequenced the complete genome for Malassezia globosa (M. globosa), a naturally occurring fungus responsible for the onset of dandruff and other skin conditions in humans. Results of the genome sequencing were published the online edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis affect more than 50 percent of the human population. Despite the role of Malassezia in these and other common skin diseases, including eczema, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, little was known about the fungus at the molecular level until this study. In addition, understanding of Malassezia's genetic make-up may help scientists reevaluate the parameters that have historically been used to classify fungal organisms.
Contact Information
Media Inquiries:
Corrie Allen
Spectrum Science Communications
(202) 955-6222 Ext. 2575
callen@spectrumscience.com
Principal P&G Beauty Science Contact:
Heather Cunningham
(513) 626-2606
Symposium Proceedings
Click here to view "Malassezia globosa and restricta: Breakthrough Understanding of the Etiology and Treatment of Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis through Whole-Gene Analysis" published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology and presented at the 21st World Congress of Dermatology.
References
Hair and Scalp Science Breakthroughs. J Investig Dermatol Symp Proc 2007; 12: 1-27
Image Gallery
High resolution images from the Dandruff Genome multimedia news release are available for download from our image gallery. Please note that the image gallery can only be accessed by those signed in with a media login. To receive a media login, please request one on the homepage.
Dandruff Genome News Stories
Dermatology Times "P&G Researchers Sequence Genome of Dandruff-Causing Fungus" - December 4, 2007
United Press International "Dandruff Fungus Genome is Sequenced" - November 28, 2007
The Scientist "Dandruff Gets Its Own Genome" - November 8, 2007
Science Friday "Scientists Crack Genetic Code of Dandruff" - November 8, 2007
Wired "Scientists Crack Genetic Code of Dandruff" - November 7, 2007
Sequencing M. Globosa Presentation
P&G scientist Dr. Tom Dawson presented his work in sequencing the dandruff genome at the 21st World Congress of Dermatology.
Click here to view Dr. Dawson's presentation.
Please note that this presentation can only be accessed by those signed in with a media login. To receive a media login, please request one on the homepage.
Media Materials
Press Release
Dandruff Fact Sheet
Dandruff Genome Sequencing Story
Research and Treatment Implications
Dr. Tom Dawson Bio
Dr. Charles Saunders Bio
The Fungal Kingdom: Diverse and Essential Roles in Earth's Ecosystem
P&G Beauty scientist Dr. Charlie Saunders participated with 35-40 expert scientists in a colloquium hosted by the American Academy of Microbiology, November 2-4, 2007 in Tucson, Arizona, to deliberate with "The Fungal Kingdom: Diverse and Essential Roles in Earth's Ecosystem."
Click here to read the full text of the document.