Understanding how immune responses affect acne treatment
Official title: Th17 extracellular trap-mediated antimicrobial host defense in acne vulgaris
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11122440 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells and bacteria related to acne work together, with the goal of finding new ways to help treat acne and improve skin health for people who struggle with it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | September 6, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $93,687 |
| NIH project number | 3R01AR081337-03S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11122440 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from moderate to severe acne vulgaris.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mild acne or those who do not have acne vulgaris may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific immune cells in the development of acne vulgaris, focusing on how different strains of the bacteria Cutibacterium acnes interact with the immune system. By examining the immune response in acne lesions, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that lead to the formation of antimicrobial cells that can kill acne-causing bacteria. The researchers will also explore potential new treatments that could help balance the bacteria in the skin and improve acne outcomes for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that more effectively treat acne and reduce its psychological impact on patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in skin conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Agak, George W — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Agak, George W
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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.