Objective To investigate the expression of ectodysplasin (EDA) genesignaling and its relationship with the development and regeneration of sweat glands. Methods The articles concerned in the latest years wereextensively reviewed. Results EDA gene is an important signaling pathway associated with the developmental procedure of sweat glands in early fetal stage. Abnormality or depletion of function in sweat glands partially owed to the defect of EDA gene. Conclusion EDA signaling has its biological significance in inducing development and morphogenesis of sweat glands and in maintaining physiological function of skin. It could be a new approach to repair or regenerate the sweat glands for clinical therapy by regulating the expression of EDA gene.