Understanding Immune Cells in Hidradenitis Suppurativa Skin

Antigen specificity of plasma cells in Hidradenitis suppurativa skin lesions

['FUNDING_R21'] · EMORY UNIVERSITY · NIH-11140543

This project aims to understand how immune cells in the skin of people with hidradenitis suppurativa contribute to the condition, especially looking at how a common virus might be involved.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorEMORY UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11140543 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a painful skin condition causing recurring abscesses and tunnels, significantly impacting daily life. Current treatments are not effective for everyone, highlighting a need for new approaches. This project will look closely at immune cells found in HS skin lesions to see what specific targets they are reacting to. Researchers are particularly interested in the Epstein Barr Virus (EBV), a common virus that has been linked to other autoimmune diseases, to see if it plays a role in triggering HS. By understanding these immune responses and potential viral connections, we hope to uncover new ways to treat HS.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This research is relevant for individuals living with hidradenitis suppurativa, particularly women and African Americans who are disproportionately affected.

Not a fit: Patients without hidradenitis suppurativa would not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of what causes hidradenitis suppurativa, paving the way for more effective and targeted treatments for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the link between Epstein Barr Virus and hidradenitis suppurativa is being explored, similar connections between EBV and other autoimmune diseases have been observed in previous studies.

Where this research is happening

ATLANTA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.