How a specific protein influences skin cell growth and development
Official title: Bidirectional control of keratinocyte differentiation and proliferation by transcription factor FOXQ1
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10894896 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called FOXQ1 affects skin cells, helping us understand how they grow and change, which could lead to better treatments for skin problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $485,781 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR082911-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10894896 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from skin conditions that involve keratinocyte dysfunction, such as atopic dermatitis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with skin conditions unrelated to keratinocyte differentiation or proliferation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the transcription factor FOXQ1 in regulating the differentiation and proliferation of skin cells called keratinocytes. By examining how FOXQ1 responds to calcium levels, the study aims to understand the mechanisms that control skin cell behavior, which is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. The research involves both normal and immortalized human keratinocyte cell lines to explore how FOXQ1 can either promote or inhibit skin cell differentiation based on environmental signals. This could lead to new insights into skin disorders and potential therapeutic approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and other cutaneous disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of transcription factors in skin cell behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nikiforov, Mikhail — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Nikiforov, Mikhail
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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.