How aging and sun exposure contribute to skin cancer development
Promotion of photocarcinogenesis by the senescent field and mechanisms for field persistence
This study is looking at how sun exposure and getting older can lead to skin cancer, especially in veterans who may have spent a lot of time in the sun during their service, to better understand how certain skin cells can keep the risk of cancer alive even after the sun exposure stops.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rlr VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10881745 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays and aging lead to skin cancer, particularly focusing on veterans who are at higher risk due to their sun exposure during military service. The study examines a novel model that links the aging of skin cells and the effects of immunosuppressive treatments to the development of skin cancer. By analyzing the presence of senescent cells in the skin, the research aims to understand how these cells contribute to the persistence of cancer risk even after UV exposure has stopped. The findings could help identify areas of the skin that are at increased risk for cancer development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include veterans and individuals with a history of significant sun exposure, particularly those who are older or have undergone immunosuppressive therapy.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to significant UV radiation or do not have risk factors such as age or immunosuppression may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention strategies and treatments for skin cancer, particularly for high-risk populations like veterans.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding the role of UV exposure and aging in skin cancer, but this specific approach linking senescent cells to cancer risk is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Indianapolis, United States
- Rlr VA Medical Center — Indianapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Konger, Raymond L — Rlr VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Konger, Raymond L
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.