WIRED Staff

Born Without Fingerprints

Scientists have identified the genetic code behind a disorder that renders people fingerprint-less. Cheryl Maynard of Fairfax, Virginia, is part of the fifth generation of her family to have inherited DPR from her mother's side. My father was in the military and he had top-secret clearances," she recalled. "We moved a lot, and everywhere we […]

Scientists have identified the genetic code behind a disorder that renders people fingerprint-less.

Cheryl Maynard of Fairfax, Virginia, is part of the fifth generation of her family to have inherited DPR from her mother's side.

My father was in the military and he had top-secret clearances," she recalled.

"We moved a lot, and everywhere we went they'd say, What do you mean your wife doesn't have fingerprints? What do you mean that you have kids without fingerprints?"

But the lack of fingerprints is the least of their problems. Some are unable to sweat. They also experience thickening of their palms and soles of their feet. Their teeth, hair develop abnormally, and their skin can be patchy and uneven.