The protein encoded by this gene has been identified as the autoantigen of the autoimmune skin blistering disease pemphigus foliaceus. It has been found that desmoglein-1 is the target antigen in majority of the cases linked to IgG/IgA pemphigus, which is an autoimmune IgG/IgA antibody mediated response. Desmoglein-1 is also a target of Staphylococcus exotoxins (exfoliatins) A and B which contribute to the pathoaetiology of staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS).
The protein encoded by this gene has been identified as the trigger for pemphigus foliaceus, an autoimmune disease characterized by skin blistering. Desmoglein-1 is the primary target in most cases linked to IgG/IgA antibodies, which are responsible for the autoimmune response. Furthermore, desmoglein-1 is also targeted by Staphylococcus exotoxins A and B, contributing to staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS).