Creating a 3D skin model to study how microbes interact with skin cells
Official title: Developing in situ transcriptomics of a bioprinted follicular skin model
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11237314 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a special 3D skin model to better understand how tiny germs interact with skin cells, which could help us learn more about skin health and conditions caused by imbalances in these germs, ultimately benefiting patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | September 14, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $280,984 |
| NIH project number | 7R21AR082668-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11237314 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with skin conditions that may be affected by microbial populations, such as acne or eczema.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with skin conditions unrelated to microbial interactions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a 3D bioprinted skin model that mimics the natural environment of hair follicles and glands, where important interactions between skin cells and microbes occur. By using advanced techniques to analyze these interactions at a cellular level, the study seeks to understand how different microbial species affect skin health and immunity. Patients may benefit from insights gained about skin conditions related to microbial imbalances, as this model will provide a more accurate representation of human skin interactions than current models.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for skin conditions influenced by microbial interactions.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using 3D bioprinted models is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding host-microbe interactions, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oh, Julia — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Oh, Julia
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.