Exploring racial differences in itch and skin conditions
Official title: Racial Differences in Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets for Chronic Itch
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-11078943 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how itch and skin conditions like atopic dermatitis and prurigo nodularis affect African Americans differently, and it hopes to find new ways to help manage chronic itch by examining specific skin receptors and markers in skin samples.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $171,072 |
| NIH project number | 7K23AR077073-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11078943 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are African American individuals suffering from chronic itch or skin conditions like atopic dermatitis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as African American or do not have chronic itch or related skin conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the differences in itch and skin diseases, particularly atopic dermatitis and prurigo nodularis, among African Americans. It aims to identify specific itch receptors and cytokine profiles that vary by race, focusing on a group of receptors known as Mas-related G protein-coupled receptors (Mrgprs). By analyzing skin samples from patients, the study seeks to uncover biomarkers that could lead to new therapeutic targets for managing chronic itch. This research is particularly relevant given the disproportionate impact of these conditions on African American populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for chronic itch and related skin conditions in African American patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding racial differences in skin conditions, but this specific focus on itch receptors in African Americans is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kwatra, Shawn Gaurav — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Kwatra, Shawn Gaurav
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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.