Understanding a Key Protein's Role in Skin Health and Diseases like Pemphigus Foliaceus
Function of Desmoglein 1/Pemphigus Foliaceus Antigen
This research explores how a vital protein called Desmoglein 1 helps maintain healthy skin and how problems with it can cause severe skin conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11136502 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The skin's outer layer acts as a crucial shield, and its proper structure is essential for protection. This project focuses on a protein called Desmoglein 1 (Dsg1), which helps give skin its strength and structure. We are learning how Dsg1 is built and moved within skin cells to reach its correct place. When Dsg1 doesn't work properly or isn't in the right spot, it can disrupt the skin's barrier, leading to serious conditions such as Pemphigus Foliaceus and SAM syndrome. Our goal is to uncover the exact steps involved in Dsg1's function and how its malfunction contributes to these diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients, but future studies stemming from this work might seek individuals with Pemphigus Foliaceus, SAM syndrome, or related skin barrier disorders.
Not a fit: Patients without skin conditions related to Desmoglein 1 function are unlikely to directly benefit from this specific basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to treat or prevent skin conditions caused by problems with Desmoglein 1, such as Pemphigus Foliaceus and SAM syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of Dsg1 trafficking are still being uncovered, previous research has established the critical role of Dsg1 in skin integrity and its connection to autoimmune and genetic skin diseases.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Green, Kathleen Janee — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Green, Kathleen Janee
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.