Investigating how a bacteria affects skin inflammation in atopic dermatitis

Understanding the role of S. aureus agr virulence in atopic dermatitis

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-11161370

This study is looking at how a common skin bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus affects inflammation in people with atopic dermatitis, using mice to help understand how it interacts with skin cells, with the hope of finding better treatments for those dealing with this skin condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Champaign, United States)
Project IDNIH-11161370 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of Staphylococcus aureus, a common skin bacteria, in causing inflammation in atopic dermatitis (AD), a chronic skin condition. The study uses a mouse model that mimics human AD to explore how this bacteria interacts with skin cells and contributes to the disease. Researchers will examine the mechanisms of bacterial colonization and the expression of specific virulence factors in both mouse models and human patients with AD. The goal is to uncover new insights that could lead to better treatments for individuals suffering from this condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals of all ages suffering from atopic dermatitis, particularly those with severe symptoms linked to bacterial infections.

Not a fit: Patients with atopic dermatitis who do not have a significant bacterial component to their condition may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for atopic dermatitis by targeting the bacterial factors that contribute to skin inflammation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting bacterial infections can improve outcomes in skin conditions, suggesting that this approach may be promising.

Where this research is happening

Champaign, 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.