Understanding the role of skin bacteria in atopic dermatitis

Microbiome Function in Atopic Dermatitis

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11078829

This study is looking at how the good and bad bacteria on our skin affect atopic dermatitis, a common skin condition, and aims to find ways to help the good bacteria thrive to improve skin health for both kids and adults.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11078829 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the skin microbiome affects atopic dermatitis (AD), a common inflammatory skin condition. It focuses on the absence of beneficial bacteria in individuals with AD and how harmful bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus worsen the condition. The study will explore ways to enhance the survival of beneficial bacteria on the skin and evaluate potential treatments for both adults and children with AD. By understanding these interactions, the research aims to develop new therapies that target the microbiome to improve skin health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals of all ages suffering from atopic dermatitis, particularly those with severe or chronic symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients without atopic dermatitis or those who do not have a significant microbiome imbalance may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that restore healthy skin microbiomes and alleviate symptoms of atopic dermatitis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in manipulating the skin microbiome to improve skin conditions, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.