Comprehensive Profiling of Genetic and Nongenetic Factors that Influence Skin Traits in Asian Women from 4 Countries

Abstract

Brightness, pore size, wrinkles, color, elasticity, moisture, transepidermal water loss, pH, and sebum are traits that directly affect skin health and aesthetics, which vary substantially among ethnic groups and individuals. Although a complex combination of genetic and environmental factors influences these traits, an accurate estimation of skin phenotypic determination in individuals from Asian countries remains to be determined. In this study, we established the ASTAGR (Asian Skin Traits and Genetics Research) cohort, comprising 2762 female participants from 4 Asian countries (Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia). We documented 26 skin traits and conducted extensive skin-related surveys among the participants. Estimation of the quantitative contribution from whole-genome sequencing–based genotyping, combined with the survey findings, led to a comprehensive documentation of skin trait determination and its variation by country. This approach also revealed major variables affecting each skin trait. Our transethnic GWAS revealed 10 significant associations, 5 of which, to our knowledge, have not been previously reported. This study provides a comprehensive profile of skin traits and their regulation in the 4 Asian countries.