Investigating a genetic factor that enhances skin wound healing

Role of the FAAH-OUT locus in cutaneous wound healing

NIH-funded research University of California-Irvine · NIH-11050986

This study is looking at a 69-year-old woman who heals skin wounds really fast and with little scarring because of a special genetic change, and the researchers hope to learn from her to find new ways to help people, especially older adults, heal better from chronic wounds.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California-Irvine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project IDNIH-11050986 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on a unique case of a 69-year-old woman who heals skin wounds exceptionally quickly with minimal scarring due to a specific genetic deletion. By analyzing her skin tissue and using advanced techniques like spatial transcriptomics and skin repair models, the researchers aim to uncover how this genetic change influences the healing process. The study also seeks to identify the molecular mechanisms involved, which could lead to new treatments for chronic wounds that affect many individuals, especially the elderly.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic wounds or those interested in advanced wound healing therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with acute wounds that heal normally without complications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that significantly improve wound healing for patients with chronic wounds.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific genetic approach is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding wound healing mechanisms and developing targeted therapies.

Where this research is happening

Irvine, 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.