Investigating how a specific protein affects skin health and cancer development

Epigenetic control of skin homeostasis by the ULK3 nuclear kinase

['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11072077

This study is looking at how a protein called ULK3 helps keep our skin healthy and how it might be linked to skin cancer, with the hope that the findings could lead to better treatments or ways to prevent skin cancer for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11072077 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of the ULK3 nuclear kinase in maintaining skin health and its potential involvement in skin cancer. The team will explore how ULK3 influences the behavior of skin cells, particularly keratinocytes and fibroblasts, which are crucial for skin structure and function. By examining the interactions between ULK3 and various genetic and biochemical pathways, the research aims to uncover new insights into skin cell growth, differentiation, and cancer progression. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to new treatments or preventive strategies for skin cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with skin conditions or those at risk for skin cancers, particularly those with a history of squamous cell carcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients with non-skin-related cancers or those without any skin health issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches for preventing or treating skin cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar molecular pathways for cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.