New diagnostic methods for food allergies
Official title: University of Michigan MHWFAC CoFar CMC Center Application
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11056702 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with food allergies by measuring how much water their skin loses, which could help catch allergic reactions right away during food tests, making it safer for those with allergies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $380,000 |
| NIH project number | 5U01AI181882-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056702 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with food allergies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without food allergies or those who are not at risk for anaphylaxis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative diagnostic techniques for food allergies, particularly through the measurement of transepidermal water loss (TEWL). By monitoring TEWL, researchers aim to detect physiological allergic reactions in real-time during food challenges, potentially preventing severe anaphylactic responses. The study is conducted by a team of experienced allergists and researchers at the University of Michigan, who have a strong background in food allergy research and clinical trials. Patients with food allergies may be monitored to assess their reactions and improve safety during food exposure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer methods for managing food allergies and preventing life-threatening anaphylactic reactions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using TEWL as a biomarker for allergic reactions, indicating that this approach may be viable.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baker, James R. — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Baker, James R.
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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.