Method for detection of biological factors in epidermis

Abstract

Disclosed is a method for removing polynucleotide from the skin. This polynucleotide can be used to detect dermatitis and distinguish an irritant reaction from an allergic reaction by characterizing the polynucleotide according to the polypeptide which it encodes. Additionally, provided are methods for non-invasive isolation of samples from the skin as well as kits for use in the methods provided herein.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A method of diagnosing ACD in a subject, comprising quantifying a polynucleotide encoding IL-4 in cells of the subject, wherein an elevated amount of IL-4 is indicative of ACD.  
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the IL-4 is detected by PCR.  
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the IL-4 is detected by hybridization with a polynucleotide probe.  
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the IL-4 is detected by RNase protection assay.  
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the cells are skin cells.  
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the subject is a mammal.  
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 6 , wherein the mammal is a human.