Understanding Collagen VII's Role in Skin Blistering and Scarring
The role of collagen VII in extracellular matrix protein secretion
This project aims to understand how a protein called collagen VII works in our skin, especially in conditions like Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa (RDEB), to find new ways to help patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11099890 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa (RDEB) is a severe skin condition that causes painful blistering and hard-to-heal wounds, often leading to serious scarring and skin cancer. This condition happens because of problems with a protein called collagen VII, which is crucial for skin strength. Our previous work showed that when collagen VII is missing or not working correctly, it changes how other proteins are handled inside skin cells, leading to stress and excessive scarring. By exploring this new understanding of collagen VII's role in protein secretion, we hope to uncover the root causes of fibrosis and cancer development in RDEB.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is most relevant to patients living with Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa (RDEB) or other severe skin blistering and fibrotic conditions.
Not a fit: Patients without RDEB or similar severe skin fragility and scarring conditions would likely not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that target the underlying causes of skin blistering, scarring, and cancer in RDEB patients.
How similar studies have performed: Our team has already published work identifying a direct role for collagen VII in protein secretion, which has shifted understanding in the field.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: South, Andrew — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: South, Andrew
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.