Understanding how protein modifications affect skin cell function in fibrosis
Official title: The role of protein O-GlcNAcylation in regulating keratinocyte function in skin fibrosis
Funded at Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · NIH-10725270 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein affects skin cells and their communication with other cells that help make collagen, to find better ways to treat skin fibrosis in people with localized scleroderma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | September 23, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $401,433 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AR082999-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10725270 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with localized scleroderma or those experiencing skin fibrosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to skin fibrosis or localized scleroderma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of protein O-GlcNAcylation in keratinocytes, which are the primary cells in the outer layer of the skin, and how this process influences skin fibrosis, particularly in localized scleroderma. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which keratinocytes communicate with fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen production, to better understand the disease progression. By exploring these cellular interactions, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets for improving treatment outcomes for patients suffering from skin fibrosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with localized scleroderma and related fibrotic conditions.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting protein O-GlcNAcylation in keratinocytes is relatively novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding fibrotic diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Yan — Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
- Study coordinator: Wang, Yan
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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.