Identifying a new marker for early diagnosis of a skin cancer called mycosis fungoides

Develop IL13Ra1 for diagnosis of early-stage mycosis fungoides

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11009055

This study is looking at a specific marker in the skin cells of people with early-stage mycosis fungoides, a type of skin cancer, to help doctors find it more easily and provide better treatment for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11009055 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on mycosis fungoides (MF), a type of skin cancer that is challenging to diagnose in its early stages. The study aims to investigate the expression of a specific receptor, IL-13Ra1, on malignant T cells found in early-stage MF skin lesions. By analyzing the correlation between IL-13Ra1 expression and the presence of cancerous T cells, the researchers hope to establish a reliable biomarker for early diagnosis. This could lead to more accurate and timely treatment for patients suffering from this condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with suspected early-stage mycosis fungoides or those experiencing unexplained skin lesions.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced-stage mycosis fungoides or other forms of skin cancer may not benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enable earlier and more accurate diagnosis of mycosis fungoides, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in identifying biomarkers for other types of cancers, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for mycosis fungoides as well.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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.
Conditions cancer microenvironmentCancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.