“…Evidence for a significant genetic contribution to microtia is based on: (1) Higher concordance in monozygotic twins than in dizygotic twins; 38.5 and 4.5%, respectively [Artunduaga et al, 2009]; (2) reported familial cases with autosomal recessive or dominant modes of inheritance with variable expression and incomplete penetrance [Ellwood et al, 1968; Konigsmark et al, 1972; Balci, 1974; Guizar‐Vazquez et al, 1978; Zankl and Zang, 1979; Schmid et al, 1985; Strisciuglio et al, 1986; Orstavik et al, 1990; Gupta and Patton, 1995; Balci et al, 2001; Klockars et al, 2007; Alasti et al, 2008; Chafai Elalaoui et al, 2010]; (3) estimates of familial cases ranging from 3 to 34% [Castilla and Orioli, 1986; Mastroiacovo et al, 1995; Okajima et al, 1996; Llano‐Rivas et al, 1999]; (4) more than 18 different microtia‐associated syndromes for which single‐gene defects or chromosomal aberrations have been reported; and 5) mouse models demonstrating that mutations in specific genes result in microtia. We discuss below the most relevant existing data for candidate genes from studies on animal models and humans.…”