Investigating how skin cells communicate damage from UVB light exposure.
Official title: Extracellular vesicles as a novel mediator for ultraviolet-B light induced photoaging and skin inflammation.
Funded at Philadelphia VA Medical Center · NIH-10951531 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how UVB light can harm the skin and cause inflammation, especially in military personnel and veterans, by examining tiny particles released by skin cells that might play a role in this damage, with the hope of finding new ways to protect and heal the skin.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Philadelphia VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2023 |
| Project end | September 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX005921-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10951531 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Armed Forces personnel and veterans who have experienced skin issues related to UVB exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with skin conditions unrelated to UVB exposure or those not in the Armed Forces may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how ultraviolet B (UVB) light causes skin damage and inflammation, particularly in Armed Forces personnel and veterans. It explores the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are tiny structures released by skin cells, in transmitting signals that lead to inflammation and photoaging. By studying these EVs, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind skin damage and identify potential therapeutic targets. The methodology includes exposing mice to UVB light and analyzing the resulting EVs to see how they affect skin cells and immune responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for skin damage and inflammation caused by UVB exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of extracellular vesicles in skin inflammation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Philadelphia VA Medical Center
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Werth, Victoria P — Philadelphia VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Werth, Victoria P
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.