How different staphylococci affect skin health and disease

Molecular mechanisms of staphylococcal modulation of skin homeostasis

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11239508

This study is looking at how different types of staph bacteria on our skin can affect skin health and conditions like eczema, and it invites patients to help by sharing skin samples to find better treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11239508 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of various staphylococcal species on skin health and disease. It focuses on understanding how these bacteria, which are common on human skin, can influence immune responses and skin barrier function. By examining the differences in staphylococcal strains found in healthy versus diseased skin, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better treatments for conditions like eczema and other skin disorders. Patients may be involved in providing skin samples to help identify these bacterial interactions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include individuals with skin conditions like atopic dermatitis or allergic eczema.

Not a fit: Patients with skin conditions unrelated to staphylococcal infections or those without any skin issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for skin conditions such as eczema and allergic dermatitis by targeting specific bacterial strains.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the skin microbiome can lead to significant advancements in treating skin diseases, suggesting this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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.