Topical cream activates immune response to suppress skin cancer growth

A topical cream activated the skin’s immune defenses and suppressed tumor growth in two preclinical models of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), one of the most common cancers in the world, according to a study published today in the Journal of Clinical Investigation. Developed by researchers at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University … Read more

Empa scientists create innovative hydrogel for simulating the human skin

Growing cells in the laboratory is an art that humans have mastered decades ago. Recreating entire three-dimensional tissues is much more challenging. Empa researchers are developing a new hydrogel-based material that makes it possible to engineer artificial skin tissues, which can serve as living three-dimensional models of human skin for better understanding and treating skin … Read more

Breakthrough research identifies small peptide for psoriasis treatment

Birmingham scientists have shown that a sequence of just three amino acids may reduce the severity of psoriasis, when applied topically in an emollient cream. The researchers, whose study is published in Pharmacological Research, identified the smallest part of a peptide (small protein) called PEPITEM, which occurs naturally in the body and regulates inflammation. The … Read more

How your skin’s microbes shape immunity, inflammation, and chronic skin disease

From babyhood to adulthood, the bacteria and fungi on your skin help train your immune system—but when that balance tips, chronic inflammation can follow. This new review reveals how and why. Study: Conversation between skin microbiota and the host: from early life to adulthood. Image Credit: Corona Borealis Studio / Shutterstock In a recent review published in … Read more