Understanding the role of skin lipases in skin health and disease

Pathologic consequences of epidermal lipase deficiencies

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11039986

This study is looking at how certain proteins in your skin, called lipases, help keep your skin healthy and how not having enough of them might lead to skin problems like atopic dermatitis and ichthyosis, with the goal of finding new treatments to help people with these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11039986 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the biological functions of specific skin lipases, which are proteins important for skin development and health. The study aims to explore how deficiencies in these lipases, particularly lipases K, M, and N, may contribute to skin conditions like atopic dermatitis and ichthyosis. Researchers will use human skin models and a special mouse model to examine the effects of these deficiencies on skin function and development. By uncovering the roles of these proteins, the research hopes to identify potential new treatments for skin diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with atopic dermatitis or genetic conditions related to skin lipase deficiencies.

Not a fit: Patients with skin conditions unrelated to lipase deficiencies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for patients suffering from inherited skin conditions and atopic dermatitis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated the importance of skin lipases in skin health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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 2026-06-10 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.