5 December 1997

We are studying the molecular genetics of disorders of hair development. We have recently mapped the gene for autosomal-recessive universal congenital alopecia in a large Pakistanian pedigree (Nothen et al., Am J Hum Genet, in press). We have now initiated a positional cloning project to identify the causative disease gene. We are actively searching for additional patients and their families to perform linkage studies and mutation screening of candidate genes. In addition, we are interested to perform linkage studies in other disorders of hair development such as autosomal-dominant alopecia or hypotrichia. We would greatly appreciate your collaboration or any information and help you could give us.

Please contact us by telephone (+49) 228 287 2345, fax (+49) 228 287 2601 or e-mail kruse@humgen.uni-bonn.de Sincerely yours