Understanding how skin regions maintain their unique characteristics

Molecular mechanisms controlling skin heterogeneity

NIH-funded research Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-11075565

This study looks at how different parts of your skin keep their special features, like color and thickness, as you grow, using samples from mice to find out what genes and factors are involved, which could help us understand how skin heals and reacts to problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11075565 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that allow different regions of the skin to retain their unique characteristics, such as thickness and pigmentation, throughout a person's life. By examining skin samples from both developing and adult mice, the researchers aim to identify specific genetic and epigenetic factors that contribute to skin heterogeneity. The study employs advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and ATAC sequencing to analyze the chromatin structure and gene expression in various skin regions. This could lead to a better understanding of how skin responds to injury and disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over 21 years old who may have skin conditions or are interested in skin health.

Not a fit: Patients with skin conditions unrelated to the mechanisms of skin heterogeneity being studied may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for skin conditions and better wound healing strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding skin characteristics through genetic and epigenetic studies, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.