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Changes in 'microbiome' during canine atopic dermatitis could lead to antibiotic-free therapies for human and canine disease

Researchers found that dogs with atopic dermatitis have a sharp decrease in skin bacterial diversity, leading to impaired barrier function and increased Staphylococcus species. Antibiotic therapy restored normal levels, suggesting a correlation between skin barrier dysfunction and bacterial overgrowth.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateApr 25, 2016

Small nerve fibers defy neuropathy conventions

A new study published in JAMA Neurology found that even prediabetes can cause nerve damage in people with small fiber neuropathy, challenging the conventional wisdom of how nerves deteriorate. The research showed that patients with prediabetes lost about 10% of their nerve fiber density each year, similar to those with diabetes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateApr 11, 2016

Skin has the nerve to tell you to scratch

Researchers at Duke University have identified a potential drug target in the skin for treating short-term itch. By targeting a specific ion channel protein called TRPV4, scientists hope to develop topical treatments that can suppress itch and inflammation.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 10, 2016

New study links traffic-related air pollution to facial dark spots

A large-scale study found a significant link between traffic-related air pollution and the formation of lentigenes (facial dark spots) on cheeks of Asian women over 50. The study also showed that exposure to nitrogen dioxide gas had a stronger impact on dark spot formation than particulate matter.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateFeb 8, 2016

More than skin deep

Researchers at LSU have identified a new gene regulation pathway that prevents inflammation and speeds up the skin's healing process. A nanoparticle-carried small interference RNA blocks the Nax sodium sensor, enabling faster healing.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 4, 2015

Got acne? Lay off the B12

New UCLA research reveals that vitamin B12 can lead to pimple-prone skin by changing the activity of facial bacteria. This finding may help identify new treatments for acne by targeting specific mechanisms in the skin. The study, published in Science Translational Medicine, sheds light on one key role that B12 plays in acne development.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 24, 2015

Sunscreen confusion may burn shoppers

A Northwestern Medicine study found that many people are confused by sunscreen terminology, with only 43% understanding SPF values and 7% knowing how to protect against early skin aging. This confusion can lead to inadequate protection against sunburns and premature skin aging.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateJun 17, 2015

A high-salt diet could protect against invading microbes

A study published in Cell Metabolism reveals that a high-salt diet can increase sodium accumulation in the skin, boosting the immune response to skin-infecting parasites. This finding suggests that dietary salt may have therapeutic potential in promoting host defense against microbial infections.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMar 3, 2015

Licorice extract protects the skin from UV-induced stress

Researchers have discovered that licorice extract's antioxidant active compound Licochalcone A strengthens the skin's defense systems, producing higher amounts of self-protecting molecules. This approach may provide superior sun protection by combining physical and biological defenses.

SourceWiley·JournalExperimental Dermatology·DateFeb 18, 2015

Eczema woes not just skin deep

Adults with eczema are more likely to experience health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and insomnia due to the emotional toll of the disease. Physicians need to address these lifestyle risks alongside skin treatments.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJan 15, 2015

Food allergy development linked to skin exposure

A new study suggests that skin sensitization to food proteins, triggered by pro-inflammatory molecules like TSLP and IL-25, can lead to food allergy development. The research found that mice exposed to food antigens through the skin developed severe allergic reactions when ingested.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 3, 2014

'Smart' bandage emits phosphorescent glow for healing below

A new paint-on, see-through 'smart' bandage glows to indicate tissue oxygenation concentration, enabling direct measurement for improved wound care. The bandage's phosphorescence emits light based on oxygen levels, allowing for non-invasive monitoring of wounds and burns.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateOct 1, 2014

University of Chicago neuroscientists challenge long-held understanding of the sense of touch

Researchers challenged the long-held principle that separate groups of nerves and receptors are responsible for distinct components of touch. They found that all types of afferents contribute to the overall sensation, regardless of specific textures or shapes. This new understanding has far-reaching implications for the study of somato...

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalTrends in Neurosciences·DateSep 22, 2014