Investigating how Staphylococcus aureus causes itch and inflammation in skin infections
Staphylococcus aureus induced itch and neuro-immune signaling in skin infections
['FUNDING_R01'] · HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL · NIH-10892142
This study is looking at how a common bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus causes itching and inflammation in skin conditions like Atopic Dermatitis, and it aims to find out how this bacteria affects nerve cells to create those itchy feelings, which could help improve treatments for itchy skin problems.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10892142 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus in causing itch and inflammation associated with skin infections, particularly in conditions like Atopic Dermatitis. The study aims to understand how the bacteria's secreted proteins interact with sensory neurons to trigger itch sensations and contribute to skin damage. By using various strains of the bacteria and animal models, researchers will investigate the mechanisms behind itch and the resulting skin pathology. This could lead to new insights into treating itch-related skin disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Atopic Dermatitis or other skin infections characterized by significant itching.
Not a fit: Patients with non-infectious skin conditions or those not experiencing itch-related symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from chronic itch and skin infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding microbial interactions with the immune system can lead to significant advancements in treating skin conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHIU, ISAAC MING-CHENG — HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL
- Study coordinator: CHIU, ISAAC MING-CHENG
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 below.