How aging skin changes can lead to skin cancer

The Aging Cutaneous Microenvironment and Cancer Initiation

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11080379

This study is looking at how aging skin might lead to skin cancer, especially by examining changes in skin cells in older adults, and it uses special mice to see how a certain protein related to aging could help us find ways to prevent skin cancer as we get older.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11080379 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between aging skin and the initiation of skin cancer. It focuses on understanding how age-related changes in skin cells, particularly fibroblasts, contribute to a microenvironment that promotes cancer development. The study uses genetically modified mice to explore the effects of elevated levels of a protein called CCN1, which is linked to skin aging and cancer. By examining these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential targets for preventing skin cancer in older adults.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who may be at increased risk for skin cancer due to age-related skin changes.

Not a fit: Patients who are not elderly or do not have skin cancer risk factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing skin cancer in aging populations.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the link between aging and cancer, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.