Exploring how certain natural compounds affect skin responses in aging

Transient Receptor Potential Channels in Human Skin

Early Phase 1 Interventional Penn State University · NCT06444594

This study is testing whether natural compounds like menthol and capsaicin can improve skin responses related to aging in people aged 18 to 85.

Quick facts

PhaseEarly Phase 1
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment45 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorPenn State University Academic / other
Locations1 site (University Park, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT06444594 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of transient receptor potential (TRP) channel agonists, such as menthol, capsaicin, and camphor, on neurovascular signaling in the skin. Participants aged 18 to 85 will apply these compounds topically to assess their impact on skin responses related to aging. The study aims to understand how these natural agents can influence skin health and neurovascular function. By examining these interactions, researchers hope to uncover potential therapeutic applications for age-related skin conditions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy adults aged 18 to 85 who are not pregnant or breastfeeding.

Not a fit: Patients with skin allergies, diabetes, or those using certain medications may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new treatments that improve skin health and neurovascular function in aging individuals.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using TRP channel agonists in this context may be novel, similar studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of these channels in skin responses.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18-85 years old.
* Women will not be pregnant and/or breastfeeding.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Currently pregnant or breastfeeding
* Nicotine use (e.g., smoking, chewing tobacco etc.), quantified as more than 100 cigarettes or cigars in a lifetime)
* Known skin allergies or current rash, skin disease, disorders of pigmentation
* Diabetes
* Body mass index \>35kg\*m-2
* Using calcium channel blockers
* Raynaud's syndrome
* Allergy or hypersensitivity to menthol, camphor, capsaicin or adhesive
* Regular use (defined as greater than once a week) of topical analgesics that contain menthol, camphor or capsaicin

Where this trial is running

University Park, Pennsylvania

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Aging
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.