Exploring how immune cells respond to bacterial skin infections using a skin-on-a-chip model
Official title: Utilizing a Novel Skin-on-a-Chip Model to Investigate Extramedullary Granulopoiesis and Immune Responses in Human Skin
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-11066898 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the immune system responds to bacterial skin infections in people with low white blood cell counts, like those with diabetes or who are getting chemotherapy, using a special model to see how immune cells move to fight infections and help find better treatments for tough-to-treat infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $42,058 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI189485-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11066898 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with neutropenia, particularly those with diabetes or undergoing chemotherapy, who are at higher risk for severe skin infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-bacterial skin infections or those who do not have compromised immune systems may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the local immune response in bacterial skin infections, particularly focusing on patients with neutropenia, such as those with diabetes or undergoing chemotherapy. By utilizing a novel skin-on-a-chip model, the study aims to observe how hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) migrate to the site of infection and produce neutrophils, which are crucial for fighting off infections. This innovative approach allows researchers to monitor immune interactions in a controlled environment, providing insights that could lead to better treatments for antibiotic-resistant infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from antibiotic-resistant skin infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using a skin-on-a-chip model is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding immune responses in other contexts, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cirves, Evan Patrick — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Cirves, Evan Patrick
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.