Investigating how skin bacteria interact with skin cells using advanced models

CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockouts in reconstructed human epidermis to profile skin microbiome interactions

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11059360

This study is looking at how the tiny bacteria and fungi on our skin interact with our skin cells to understand their role in skin health and diseases, using special lab-created skin models to see what happens when certain genes are changed.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11059360 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to explore the interactions between the skin microbiome and skin cells by using genetically modified 3D skin models. The study will utilize reconstructed human epidermis to create a platform for examining how various skin bacteria and fungi affect skin health and contribute to diseases. By knocking out specific human genes and observing the effects of different microbial populations, researchers hope to gain insights into the mechanisms behind skin infections and inflammatory disorders. This approach combines advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing to provide a detailed understanding of these interactions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with skin infections or inflammatory skin disorders who may benefit from improved understanding and treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with non-skin-related health issues or those not experiencing skin infections or inflammatory conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating skin infections and inflammatory skin conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar 3D models to study skin microbiome interactions, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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.