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Photodynamic therapy vs. cryotherapy for actinic keratoses

A meta-analysis of four studies found that photodynamic therapy (PDT) is more effective than cryotherapy in clearing actinic keratoses (AKs), a common skin lesion caused by sun damage. At three months after treatment, patients treated with PDT had a 14% better chance of complete lesion clearance compared to those who received cryotherapy.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateAug 27, 2014

Acute psychological stress promotes skin healing in mice

Researchers found that brief acute psychological stress promotes healing in mouse models of three different types of skin irritations. The study revealed that the anti-inflammatory effects of glucocorticoids produced by the adrenal glands under stress are beneficial for inflammatory disorders and acute injury in both mice and humans.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateAug 7, 2014

New diagnostic test to distinguish psoriasis from eczema

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have created a diagnostic procedure that uses only two genes to reliably differentiate between psoriasis and eczema. The new test is expected to pave the way for personalized medicine in chronic inflammatory skin diseases, reducing the need for expensive treatments.

Pause the paunch and halt the hair loss

Scientists have discovered that changes in the hair growth cycle affect fluctuations in the thickness of underlying fat tissue, allowing skin to regulate fat production. This breakthrough could lead to topical creams that 'pause' fat cell growth, treating obesity and hair loss.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 1, 2014

Here comes the sun to lower your blood pressure

Research at the University of Southampton found that sunlight alters nitric oxide levels in the skin and blood, reducing blood vessel tone and lowering blood pressure. This could be beneficial for cardiovascular health, particularly during winter months when blood pressure tends to be higher.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateJan 20, 2014

First genetic mutations linked to atopic dermatitis identified in African-American children

Researchers have identified two genetic variations associated with persistent atopic dermatitis in African-American children, shedding light on the skin disorder's mechanisms. The study found that loss-of-function mutations to Filaggrin-2 were linked to increased risk of AD in African American children.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateNov 11, 2013

Lawsuits increasing over skin-related laser surgery like hair removal performed by non-physicians

A study found that lawsuits related to procedures when non-physicians operate the laser are increasing, particularly outside traditional medical settings. Non-physician operators, including nurse practitioners and medical assistants, were involved in 75.5% of hair removal lawsuits from 2004 to 2012.

Skin receptors convey sensation of texture through vibrations

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has discovered that two sets of nerve receptors in the skin convey information about fine textures through vibrations. This finding suggests that humans can discriminate between different fine textures, such as silk and satin, through these subtle vibrations.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 30, 2013

Sunlight induced DNA crash

Researchers at Bonn University have discovered that UV-light induced DNA damage triggers lupus-like autoimmune symptoms by activating the cGAS signaling pathway. This study provides a crucial understanding of the immune mechanism behind lupus and offers potential new therapy targets.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalImmunity·DateAug 29, 2013

23andMe conducts the first genetic study of non-syndromic striae distensae (stretch marks)

A genetic study conducted by 23andMe has identified four genetic markers associated with the development of non-syndromic striae distensae (stretch marks), a skin condition affecting approximately 50-80% of people. The study suggests that elastin, a key component of elastic fibers in the skin, plays a crucial role in the formation of s...

Source23andMe, Inc.·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateAug 22, 2013

ID got you, under the skin

A team at Jadavpur University has developed a computer algorithm that can analyze the minutiae of blood vessels revealed by an infra-red scan of a person's face. The thermogram shows the pattern of blood vessels almost down to the smallest capillary with an accuracy of over 97%, making it suitable for high-security applications.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Computational Intelligence Studies·DateJul 11, 2013

Supersense: It's a snap for crocs

Research found that crocodylians have unique multi-sensory organs called dome pressure receptors or Integumentary Sensory organs, which grant fingertip sensitivity and detect surface pressure waves. These sensors also help regulate body temperature and detect suitable habitats.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalEvoDevo·DateJul 1, 2013

Researchers identifies gene associated with eczema in dogs

A novel gene associated with canine atopic dermatitis has been identified by researchers. The gene encodes a protein called plakophilin 2, which is crucial for the formation and proper functioning of the skin structure. This finding opens new possibilities in understanding the disease mechanism leading to atopic dermatitis.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMay 9, 2013

Don't trust liposomes in your beauty products

Researchers from University of Southern Denmark used RICS technique to investigate liposome movement on skin. They found that liposomes are destroyed before entering the skin and spilling their cargo of active ingredients. The study advises against trusting claims about liposomes carrying active ingredients into the skin.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateFeb 19, 2013

JCI early table of contents for Jan. 9, 2013

Researchers found a small peptide that blocks antibody recognition of desmogleins, improving cell-cell adhesion and preventing skin blistering in pemphigus vulgaris. Additionally, spironolactone reduced vascular calcification in kidney disease mice, increasing their life span. A glioblastoma fusion gene promoted tumor growth and progre...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 9, 2013

To make old skin cells act young again, boost their surroundings, U-M scientists show

Researchers at the University of Michigan have made skin cells in senior citizens act like younger cells again by adding more filler to the surrounding extracellular matrix. The study shows that this approach can trigger a signal for cells to wake up and respond positively to alterations in their environment.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateDec 10, 2012

Autism treatment is more than skin deep

Researchers found that metal-binding agents applied to the skin, prescribed for autism treatment, are not absorbed and ineffective. The study contradicts claims made by some practitioners treating children with mercury-binding agents.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Medical Toxicology·DateNov 13, 2012