Understanding how UV radiation affects immune response and skin cancer development

Role of Trem1 in ultraviolet radiation-induced immune suppression

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11091999

This study is looking at how UVB rays from the sun can weaken our immune system and lead to skin cancer, and it’s testing whether blocking a specific receptor called Trem1 can help protect against this damage, using both mice and human skin samples to find better ways to prevent and treat skin cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11091999 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation on the immune system and its role in skin cancer development. It focuses on a specific receptor, Trem1, which is increased in response to UVB exposure and may contribute to immune suppression. The study aims to explore how blocking Trem1 can prevent UVB-induced immune suppression and skin cancer. By using both mouse models and human skin tissues, the research seeks to develop new strategies for prevention and treatment of skin cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of skin cancer or those who are immunosuppressed, such as organ transplant recipients.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of skin cancer or are not immunosuppressed may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new preventive measures and treatments for skin cancer, particularly for individuals at high risk due to immune suppression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting immune suppression in cancer, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, 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.
Conditions American Cancer Society
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.