Research on the Skin Microbiome and Genetic Contributions to Atopic Conditions
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that impacts millions of children worldwide and is often the first step in the progression of other allergic diseases, including asthma. However, the genetic and molecular mechanisms driving AD and its progression of other allergic comorbidities remain poorly understood. Dysregulation of the skin microbiome and impaired skin barrier integrity are considered key determinants of AD pathogenesis and atopic progression. To investigate the genetic and microbial alterations that drive AD, our lab utilizes non-invasive skin tape samples collected from the Mechanisms of Progression of Atopic Dermatitis to Asthma in Children (MPAACH) cohort.
Key areas of study in our lab include elucidating the genetic, microbial, and immune responses that contribute to AD pathogenesis and its progression to other allergic diseases. One focus is on Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium that worsens AD. We examine changes in S. aureus gene expression in AD patients, with the aim of identifying bacterial genes that may increase susceptibility to infection and inflammation. From these studies, our goal is to identify specific S. aureus genes that could be targeted in therapeutic strategies to prevent AD exacerbations and the progression of other atopic diseases.
Our lab also investigates the contribution of immune cells, particularly mast cells, during inflammatory flare-ups of AD. We are specifically interested in how melanin influences mast cell migration and how their potential interaction influences mast cell functions that contribute to skin inflammation and disease progression.
To uncover the molecular mechanisms behind atopic progression, we apply cutting-edge technologies like gene expression profiling and microbiome analysis. Our ultimate goal is to identify biomarkers that can be used in early intervention strategies, improving clinical outcomes for children with AD .
