How a bacteria affects skin barrier and allergy development

Staphylococcal protease-mediated epithelial barrier perturbation and allergen sensitization

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11012834

This study is looking at how a type of bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus might make allergic skin conditions like atopic dermatitis worse by harming the skin's protective barrier, and it aims to find new ways to help improve skin health and reduce allergic reactions for people dealing with these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11012834 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus contributes to allergic diseases, particularly atopic dermatitis, by damaging the skin barrier. It focuses on the role of a specific protease produced by the bacteria that may disrupt the skin's protective layer and lead to increased sensitivity to allergens. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets to improve skin health and reduce allergic reactions. Patients may be involved in studies that assess their skin responses to allergens and the presence of this bacteria.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from atopic dermatitis or other allergic conditions related to skin barrier dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients without allergic conditions or those who do not have skin barrier issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that strengthen the skin barrier and reduce allergic reactions in patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting skin barrier dysfunction can improve outcomes in allergic diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Conditions Allergic Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.