How a protein affects communication between skin cells and melanoma development
Role of Desmoglein 1 in Keratinocyte-Melanocyte Communication and Melanoma
This study is looking at how a protein called Desmoglein 1 helps skin cells talk to each other and how losing this protein from things like sun exposure might lead to changes that can cause melanoma, with the hope of finding new ways to prevent or treat this skin cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11052548 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Desmoglein 1, a protein found in skin cells, in the communication between keratinocytes and melanocytes, which are crucial for understanding melanoma. The study aims to uncover how the loss of this protein due to environmental factors like UV radiation can lead to changes in melanocytes that promote melanoma. By examining the mechanisms of this communication and the effects of Desmoglein 1 loss, the research seeks to identify potential pathways that contribute to melanoma progression. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new prevention or treatment strategies for melanoma.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for melanoma, particularly those with a history of significant UV exposure or skin conditions affecting keratinocytes and melanocytes.
Not a fit: Patients with melanoma that has already progressed to advanced stages may not benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating melanoma by targeting the communication pathways between skin cells.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding cell communication in cancer, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Green, Kathleen Janee — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Green, Kathleen Janee
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 below.