How skin bacteria influence skin health and healing

Microbial regulation of the keratinocyte AHR

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11056034

This study is looking at how certain bacteria on our skin can help keep it healthy and heal better, especially for people with skin issues like atopic dermatitis, and it aims to find new treatments that use these helpful bacteria.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11056034 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of skin bacteria in maintaining skin health and healing, particularly focusing on a receptor in skin cells called the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). The study aims to identify specific microbial compounds that can activate this receptor to enhance skin barrier function and fight infections. By understanding how these bacteria interact with skin cells, the research seeks to develop new treatments for conditions like atopic dermatitis, which is characterized by skin barrier dysfunction and inflammation. Patients may be involved in trials testing these new microbial-based therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from atopic dermatitis or related skin conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with non-inflammatory skin conditions or those not affected by skin barrier dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that improve skin barrier function and reduce symptoms of atopic dermatitis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of skin microbiota in skin health, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.