Using gentamicin to treat junctional epidermolysis bullosa

A Pilot Study of the Restoration of Functional Laminin 332 in JEB Patients With Nonsense Mutations After Topical and Intravenous Gentamicin Treatment

Phase1; Phase2 Interventional University of Southern California · NCT03526159

This study is testing if a medication called gentamicin can help improve skin healing and condition in people with a rare skin disorder caused by specific gene mutations.

Quick facts

PhasePhase1; Phase2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment6 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Southern California Academic / other
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, California)
Trial IDNCT03526159 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the use of gentamicin, administered both topically and intravenously, to treat patients with Herlitz junctional epidermolysis bullosa (H-JEB) caused by nonsense mutations in the LAMB3 gene. The study aims to restore the production of laminin beta3, which is crucial for skin integrity, and assess its effects on wound healing and skin adherence. A total of six subjects, including both adults and children, will be monitored for improvements in skin condition and healing during follow-up visits.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with junctional epidermolysis bullosa who have nonsense mutations in the LAMB3 gene.

Not a fit: Patients without nonsense mutations in the LAMB3 gene or those with pre-existing conditions like auditory or renal impairment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve skin integrity and healing in patients with junctional epidermolysis bullosa.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is novel in the context of junctional epidermolysis bullosa, previous studies have shown promise in using gentamicin for nonsense mutation readthrough in other conditions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1\. JEB patients with nonsense mutations in the LAMB3 gene in either one or two alleles.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. JEB patients who do not have nonsense mutations in the LAMB3 gene in either allele.
2. Pre-existing known auditory impairment.
3. Pre-existing known renal impairment.
4. Pre-existing known allergies to aminoglycosides or sulfate compounds.
5. Pregnancy.

Where this trial is running

Los Angeles, California

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 Junctional Epidermolysis BullosaHerlitzLaminin 332Laminin beta 3JEB
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.