Cholesterol metabolites and their role in skin immunity

Cholesterol metabolites coordinate skin barrier immunity centered on innate dermal gammadelta T cells programmed to produce IL-17

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER · NIH-10975948

This study is looking at how certain cholesterol-related substances affect immune cells in the skin, especially a type of cell that helps keep our skin healthy and prevents inflammation, and it's for anyone interested in understanding more about skin health and immune responses.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WORCESTER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10975948 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how cholesterol metabolites influence the immune response in the skin, particularly focusing on a type of immune cell known as Tγδ17 cells that produce a cytokine called IL-17. By examining the interactions between these metabolites and immune cells, the study aims to understand how they help maintain skin barrier function and prevent inflammatory diseases. The research employs both human and mouse models to explore the mechanisms by which these metabolites affect immune cell behavior and skin health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from skin inflammatory diseases like atopic dermatitis or allergic eczema.

Not a fit: Patients with non-inflammatory skin conditions or those not affected by immune-related skin issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for skin inflammatory conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting immune responses in the skin can lead to significant improvements in treating inflammatory skin conditions, suggesting a promising avenue for this study.

Where this research is happening

WORCESTER, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.