Using skin probiotics to treat Netherton Syndrome
Official title: Skin probiotics to treat Netherton Syndrome
Funded at Resvita Bio, INC. · NIH-11008785 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with Netherton Syndrome by using a specially modified bacterium that can be applied to the skin to deliver a missing protein, aiming to improve skin health without the side effects of regular treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Resvita Bio, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 15, 2022 |
| Project end | August 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,330,533 |
| NIH project number | 2R44AR082240-02A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11008785 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Netherton Syndrome, particularly those experiencing severe skin symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other skin disorders or those not diagnosed with Netherton Syndrome may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treating Netherton Syndrome, a severe genetic skin disorder. The team aims to genetically engineer a harmless bacterium that can be applied topically to the skin, allowing it to continuously deliver therapeutic fragments of a protein called LEKTI, which is deficient in patients with this condition. By doing so, the research seeks to restore the balance of skin proteases and improve skin health without the systemic side effects associated with traditional therapies. The project includes testing the safety and effectiveness of this treatment in laboratory models before seeking FDA approval.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a groundbreaking treatment option for patients suffering from Netherton Syndrome, significantly improving their skin health and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using engineered bacteria for therapeutic delivery is innovative, similar strategies have shown promise in other conditions, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Resvita Bio, INC.
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zargar, Amin — Resvita Bio, INC.
- Study coordinator: Zargar, Amin
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.