How fetal development affects adult skin cell health

Mechanisms that couple irregular development of fetal melanoblasts to premature exhaustion of adult melanocyte stem cells

NIH-funded research Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute · NIH-11098526

This study is looking at how the way skin cells develop in babies can affect skin health when they grow up, and it's for anyone interested in keeping their skin healthy as they age.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11098526 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between the development of specific skin cells in the fetus and the health of adult skin cell populations. By studying the genetic factors that influence these cells during embryonic development, researchers aim to understand how early life conditions can impact skin health later in life. The approach includes advanced genetic techniques and single-cell analysis to track changes in skin cell populations over time. This could provide insights into how to maintain healthy skin and prevent degeneration as individuals age.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in understanding the genetic factors affecting their skin health, particularly those with concerns about aging or skin degeneration.

Not a fit: Patients with skin conditions unrelated to stem cell function or those who are not interested in genetic influences on skin health may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preserving skin health and preventing age-related skin diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the links between embryonic development and adult stem cell function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.