Understanding how skin cells respond to bacterial infections
Official title: GSDMA roles in skin innate immune defense
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11118915 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how skin cells respond to infections from a common bacteria that can cause serious illnesses, and it aims to find new ways to help treat these infections and their complications, which could benefit patients dealing with skin issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | June 17, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $586,464 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI180089-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11118915 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with skin infections caused by Streptococcus pyogenes or those at risk of developing such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by other bacteria or those without skin-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how skin cells, specifically keratinocytes, react to infections caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes, which can lead to severe diseases. The study focuses on a specific cell death mechanism called gasdermin A-dependent pyroptosis, which may play a crucial role in the body's immune response. By examining how this bacterium manipulates skin cell processes, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic strategies to combat infections and their severe consequences. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments for skin infections and related complications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for skin infections and reduce the risk of severe complications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding bacterial infections and immune responses, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Larock, Christopher N — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Larock, Christopher N
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.