2021 Research Awards
Optimizing Phototesting and Investigating Photobiology of Visible Light
Through improved means of investigating photoprotection efficacy extending into the visible waveband, the proposed studies should provide improved guidelines for testing sun protection agents that prevent sunburn in light-skinned individuals….
Characterizing the Genetics and Epigenetics of Linear Morphea
Morphea is an inflammatory skin disease that can be debilitating and disfiguring. Developing a better understanding of this disease is the first step toward better pharmacological treatments and preventive strategies….
Choice Help: Optimizing Outcomes by Supporting Encounters for Kids with Congenital Melanocytic Nevi
We need tools to support shared decision-making in pediatric dermatology as well as studies evaluating this process. Choice Help: Optimizing Outcomes by Supporting Encounters for kids with Congenital Melanocytic Nevi…
Loss of Effective Antigen Presentation in Melanoma and Treatment Failure
Loss of effective presentation of tumor antigens by melanoma may drive immunotherapy resistance. We will use multiplex immunofluorescence to map antigen presentation at single-cell resolution across whole slides, and correlate…
Biomarker Analysis of Transcriptome Signatures in Mycosis Fungoides Across Clinicopathologic Stages
Mycosis Fungoides (MF) is a rare disease that is difficult to diagnose and treat. Recent studies on the genomic signature of this disease have shown that MF is difficult to…
Closing Practice Gaps in Dermatomyositis Malignancy Screening
Dermatomyositis is an autoimmune disease affecting skin and muscle, and 15%–20% of patients eventually develop cancer. Lack of evidence-based guidelines for malignancy screening represents a practice gap in dermatology and…
Investigation of Dermatologic Toxicity from Immune Checkpoint Blockade in Advanced Malignancies
Advanced malignancies are increasingly being treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors, which can lead to immune-related adverse events (irAEs), including those in the skin. This project will investigate key clinical, pathologic,…
Evaluating the Impact of Sleep on Psoriasis and Associated Comorbidities
Sleep impairment is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders. Research shows that psoriasis patients are more likely to report sleep disturbance compared to people without psoriasis. This…
Skin Microbiome — Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Crosstalk at Skin Interface Regulates Barrier Function
A compromised skin barrier results in increased susceptibility to pathogens and chronic conditions (e.g., atopic dermatitis) that severely impact human appearance. The skin microbiome is a critical regulator of skin…
Identification of Disease-Driving T Cells and Antigens in Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata (AA) is mediated by autoreactive T cells, but the antigen(s) targeted in this autoimmune response are unknown. This study seeks to identify disease-driving T cells in the skin…