Mutations conferring substantial risk for EoE have been identified in other plakin family members (e.g., desmoplakin [DSP] and periplakin [PPL]) that form desmosomes and are downregulated in EoE (42), collectively signifying the central role of the epithelial barrier and cytoskeletal organization in upholding the protective function of the esophageal epithelium. Here, DSP is linked to eosinophilic esophagitis.