In pemphigus vulgaris (PV), autoantibodies mainly directed against Dsg1 and 3 cause suprabasal blistering of the epidermis and mucous membranes, whereas in pemphigus foliaceus (PF) autoantibodies directed against Dsg1 cause superficial blisters in the skin only. This evidence concerns the gene DSG1 and pemphigus foliaceus.