Recent uci_som_derm items

Collagen remodeling in murine melanoma therapy response through second-harmonic generation imaging

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The study by Heaton et al. marks a significant advancement in understanding the role of collagen remodeling within the melanoma tumor microenvironment during immunotherapy. Using in vivo second-harmonic generation imaging, the authors quantitatively tracked dynamic changes in collagen morphology in a preclinical melanoma model, revealing a shift toward a healthier phenotype associated with treatment. These findings enhance our understanding of tumor extracellular matrix dynamics and highlight the potential of optical imaging technologies to guide and optimize cancer immunotherapy. This commentary will explore these findings, contextualize them within the broader field of tumor immunology, and discuss their implications for improving immunotherapy strategies in melanoma and other cancers.

Label-free human skin imaging with enhanced molecular contrast via time-resolved fluorescence and advanced phasor analysis

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Current state-of-the-art clinical skin imaging using label-free multiphoton microscopy (MPM) faces challenges due to limited molecular specificity, which hampers the accurate characterization of skin tissues because of overlapping fluorescence signals from multiple molecular components. In this study, we present a novel approach to enhance molecular contrast in MPM clinical skin imaging by leveraging advanced strategies to effectively unmix the various endogenous fluorophores present in the skin with the performance capabilities of a recently developed imaging platform for in vivo time-resolved fluorescence imaging of human skin. By identifying phasor positions of key endogenous skin fluorophores – such as keratin, melanin, free NADH, and protein-bound NADH – we effectively perform multicomponent unmixing in different skin types and conditions, including those with varying levels of pigmentation and metabolic states. The phasor analysis allows for the mapping and quantification...

Treatment preferences by disease severity in alopecia areata: A cross-sectional survey study

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Treatment preferences by disease severity in alopecia areata: A cross-sectional survey study

Consensus guidelines for cellular label-free optical metabolic imaging: ensuring accuracy and reproducibility in metabolic profiling

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Significance: Cellular metabolism plays a central role in health and disease, making its study critical for advancing diagnostics and therapies. Label-free optical metabolic imaging using endogenous fluorescence from reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (phosphate) [NAD(P)H] and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) provides nondestructive, high-resolution insights into metabolic function and heterogeneity from the sub-cellular to the tissue level. Standardized approaches are essential to ensure reproducibility and comparability across studies. Aim: We aim to establish a consensus framework for the acquisition, calibration, and reporting of microscopic imaging metabolic function assessments based on fluorescence intensity and lifetime measurements of NAD(P)H and FAD. Approach: We present best practices for calibrating, analyzing, and reporting fluorescence intensity-based optical redox ratios and fluorescence lifetime data using multiexponential fitting and phasor analysis. Guidelines...

Currently managed US prevalence of cutaneous venous malformations (cVMs): a nationally representative, retrospective, real-world, subject-blinded, physician-observational probability study

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BackgroundCutaneous venous malformations (cVMs) are rare vascular anomalies characterized by progressive vessel ectasia, leading to disfigurement, pain, ulceration, and bleeding. These lesions often evade early detection and are notoriously difficult to treat due to the limited dermal bioavailability of systemic therapies. Unlike deep venous malformations, cVMs present unique management challenges and currently lack FDA-approved treatments. To address the paucity of epidemiologic data, we conducted a nationally representative, blinded, real-world observational probability study to estimate the annual treatment prevalence of cVM in the United States.A geographically representative sample of dermatologists, hematologist-oncologists, pediatricians, radiologists, and vascular surgeons was recruited via blinded invitations. Participants self-reported the number of cVM patients treated in the prior 12 months. Estimates were adjusted for comanagement to calculate the national...

Label-free multiphoton microscopy of human skin: longitudinal studies capturing cell dynamics

Wed, 1 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study presents recent advances in an imaging platform developed by our lab, the fast large area multiphoton exoscope (FLAME), a microscope designed for clinical skin imaging. Its dual-scanning modality enables reliable, cellular-scale imaging of the same skin locations over extended time periods across areas up to 1 cm². Enabling fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy, this device, for the first time in vivo, allows detailed longitudinal tracking of cellular dynamics in human skin, such as responses to injury, significantly advancing the capabilities of dermatological research. By overcoming previous limitations in large-area, high-resolution skin imaging, FLAME opens new opportunities for monitoring therapy responses, tracking cellular dynamics, and understanding skin biology at the cellular level.

Fast large-area multiphoton exoscope for label-free in vivo imaging of immune cells in human skin

Wed, 1 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Fast large-area multiphoton exoscope for label-free in vivo imaging of immune cells in human skin

Minoxidil as a treatment for onychodystrophy: a systematic review

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Minoxidil as a treatment for onychodystrophy: a systematic review

CDC42-effector interaction inhibitors alter patterns of vessel arborization in skin and tumors in vivo

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Skin tumors require a vascular supply to grow beyond 1 mm in depth, yet existing anti-angiogenesis agents are largely ineffective at treating melanoma tumors arising in skin. Using an approach that integrates antibody infusion, optical tissue clearing, multiphoton imaging, and vessel tracing, we identified the CDC42 GTPase RhoJ as a critical regulator of skin vessel arborization. Small molecules that target both RhoJ and CDC42 (CDC42 interaction inhibitors), but not those that target only CDC42 (CASIN), inhibit vessel branching in mouse skin in vivo and vascular organoids in vitro. This anti-vascular effect was not limited to skin, as CDC42 interaction inhibitors blocked melanoma tumor vascularization and inhibited tumor growth to a similar degree as Braf inhibitors. Taken together, this work identifies small molecules that target RhoJ as selective tumor anti-vascular agents. RhoJ-targeting drugs have a particular proclivity for blocking skin vascularization, nominating...

Statement from the frontal fibrosing alopecia international expert alliance: SOFFIA 2024

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: As the incidence of frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) continues to rise, there is a need for an optimal treatment algorithm for FFA. OBJECTIVE: To produce an international consensus statement on the treatment modalities and prognostic indicators of FFA. METHODS: Sixty-nine hair experts from six continents were invited to participate in a three-round Delphi process. The final stage was held as a virtual meeting facilitated via Zoom. The consensus threshold was set at ≥66%. RESULTS: Of 365 questions, expert consensus was achieved in 204 (56%) questions following completion of the three rounds. Three additional questions were included at the final meeting. The category with the strongest consensus agreement was disease monitoring (9; 100%). Questions pertaining to physical therapies achieved the least category consensus (15; 40%), followed by systemic therapy (45; 43%). LIMITATIONS: The study lacked sufficient representation from Africa and South America. CONCLUSION: SOFFIA...

Uncovering minimal pathways in melanoma initiation

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Melanomas are genetically heterogeneous, displaying mitogen-activated protein kinase mutations and homozygous loss of tumor suppressor genes. Mouse models combining such mutations produce fast-growing tumors. In contrast, rare, slow-growing tumors arise in mice combining Braf activation with heterozygous loss of Pten. Here we show that similar tumors can arise in albino mice bearing only a Braf mutation. Incidence kinetics suggest a stochastic event underlies tumorigenesis in tumors that arise with only a Braf mutation, yet de novo mutations or structural variants that could explain the incidence of most tumors could not be found. Single-cell transcriptomics of tumors identify a cell type resembling “neural crest-like” cells in human and mouse melanomas. These exist in normal mouse skin, expand upon Braf activation, and persist through serial transplantation; analyses of gene expression suggest they serve as precursors of malignant cells. This state may serve as an intermediate...

Increasing baricitinib accessibility through prescription discounts

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Increasing baricitinib accessibility through prescription discounts

Isotretinoin Effects on Nasal Contouring: The Role of Facial Landmark Detection Technology

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Isotretinoin Effects on Nasal Contouring: The Role of Facial Landmark Detection Technology

Autologous cell harvesting device provides repigmentation and improves quality-of-life for patients with stable vitiligo lesions in a large and diverse patient population

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

INTRODUCTION: The mental health burden associated with vitiligo can significantly impact patients' quality-of-life. Although successful for repigmentation of stable vitiligo, adoption of surgical melanocyte transplantation remains limited due to time and skilled-expertise requirements. A cell harvesting device prepares autologous skin cell suspension (ASCS) at point of care, simplifying the process. OBJECTIVE: To confirm early and favorable repigmentation response and evaluate health-related quality-of-life changes following ASCS treatment of stable vitiligo. METHODS: In this large (N = 107), prospective, multicenter study, vitiligo lesions were laser-ablated and received ASCS treatment followed by at-home phototherapy. RESULTS: All Fitzpatrick skin types and major vitiligo subtypes were represented. Excellent repigmentation response (≥80%) was observed by week 4. By week-24, all lesions demonstrated improvement; 67% achieved >50% repigmentation, 42% achieved ≥80% repigmentation,...

History of acne is associated with new-onset acne development in patients with alopecia areata treated with Janus kinase inhibitors

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

History of acne is associated with new-onset acne development in patients with alopecia areata treated with Janus kinase inhibitors

Efficacy and safety of etrasimod in alopecia areata: A multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, Phase 2 study

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: Etrasimod, an oral, selective sphingosine 1-phosphate 1, 4 and 5 receptor modulator approved for the treatment of ulcerative colitis, has been studied in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, including alopecia areata (AA). OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of etrasimod in adults with moderate to severe AA. METHODS: This Phase 2, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial included patients (aged ≥18 years) with moderate to severe AA, defined as a Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score of ≥25. Patients were sequentially enrolled into two cohorts. Cohort 1 included patients (SALT score of ≥50) randomized 2:1 to etrasimod 2 mg or placebo. Cohort 2 included patients (SALT score ≥25 to <95) randomized 4:1:2 to etrasimod 3 mg, 2 mg or placebo. Patients completed a 24-week double-blind and 28-week open-label extension period. The primary endpoint was percent change from baseline (%CFB) in SALT score at Week 24. Safety was monitored throughout the...

The Relationship between Stigma and Healthcare Interaction in Alopecia Areata

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: People with alopecia areata (AA) experience stigma, but little is known about how this affects healthcare interaction (HCI). We aim to explore the relationship between stigma and HCI in AA. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 500 members of the National Alopecia Areata Foundation was performed. Survey items related to stigma and HCI were summed and sorted into low, medium, and high tertiles. Multinomial logistic regressions were performed to control for demographic and clinical factors. Results: Respondents (n = 500) were white (80.0%), female (86.2%), and insured (96.0%), with a plurality earning over USD 100,000 annually (34.2%). Participants in the high-stigma subgroup were more likely to be in the low-HCI subgroup (relative risk ratio [RRR]: 2.22; 95% CI: 1.31-3.76; p = 0.003), in comparison to participants in the low- or moderate-stigma subgroups (RRR for both: 0.45; p < 0.05). This relationship was independent of demographics and clinical...

Evidence-based consensus on the clinical application of photobiomodulation

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: There is a lack of evidence-based consensus to assist clinicians in using photobiomodulation (PBM). OBJECTIVE: To create a consensus on the safe and effective use of PBM. METHODS: A systematic literature review of Embase and MEDLINE was conducted in June 2022 to identify publications reporting research on PBM. An international multidisciplinary panel was convened to draft recommendations informed by the systematic search; they were refined through 2 rounds of Delphi survey, 2 consensus meetings, and iterative review by all panelists until unanimous consensus was achieved. RESULTS: A multidisciplinary panel of experts (n = 21) was assembled based on publication history. The key findings that informed the consensus developed by the expert panel were as follows: PBM is a safe treatment modality for adult patients and red light PBM does not induce DNA damage. PBM is an effective treatment option for peripheral neuropathy, androgenic alopecia, wound ulcers due to multiple...

Adding to Your Tool Box: Laser Therapy for Vascular Anomalies

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Adjuvant laser therapy of vascular anomalies is based on the principle of selective photo-thermolysis, through targeted destruction of selected chromophores with minimal injury to surrounding tissue. Choice of laser wavelength, treatment parameters, and predicted response to therapy are dependent on the dominant chromophore within the vascular anomaly, lesional location, and target depth, with relatively superficial and mucosal lesions producing the best response to therapy. Lasers can be safely combined with multi-modal approaches for vascular anomalies, including sclerotherapy, surgical excision, and systemic therapy. In this manuscript, we review the laser literature on a range of vascular anomalies, and provide indications, appropriate therapeutic and warning endpoints in the skin, pearls/pitfalls, and multi-disciplinary approaches for pediatric dermatologists pursuing laser as adjuvant therapy for vascular anomalies.

Summation and recommendations for the safe and effective use of topical and oral minoxidil

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: Topical minoxidil, approved for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, also has efficacy in many other hair loss disorders, its use is limited due to the need for at least daily application. Oral minoxidil, in doses below those likely to lower blood pressure (so called "low dose oral minoxidil") has increasingly been used off label to treat a variety of hair loss conditions but without any standard recommended best practices. OBJECTIVES: To provide a review of how experts in hair loss use the available literature on topical and low dose oral minoxidil to educate and treat safely and effectively patients with hair loss. METHODS: Dermatologists with expertise in hair disorders met by teleconference and email to review the literature and share their direct experience with topical and oral minoxidil. RESULTS: Provision of basic knowledge of the key aspects of the use of topical or oral minoxidil to insure safe and effective use of either in treating hair loss.

Consensus Statement on the Prevention and Management of Complications of Fully Ablative Laser Resurfacing of the Face

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

OBJECTIVES: To achieve consensus among expert laser surgeons on standards for the prevention and management of adverse events from fully ablative laser resurfacing of the face. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Delphi study with two rounds of ratings and revisions until consensus was achieved. The draft set of statements was developed by a steering committee based on expert clinical experience. This was followed by two rounds of rating and revisions completed by an expert panel, then a virtual consensus meeting. In both rounds, respondents rated the draft statements on a 9-point Likert scale (1 = strongly disagree; 9 = strongly agree) and optionally provided comments. The consensus meeting was supplemented by the results of a systematic review of the literature (from 2000 to 2023). RESULTS: Two rounds of Delphi survey were completed by 34 participants across four countries. Represented specialties were dermatology, facial plastic surgery, plastic surgery, and oculoplastic surgery. The initial...

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 as a Topical Alternative to Botulinum Toxin: A Review of the Literature.

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 as a Topical Alternative to Botulinum Toxin: A Review of the Literature.

Components of Severity in Alopecia Areata

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Severity of alopecia areata (AA) has been commonly defined by clinician assessment of scalp hair loss. Our aim was to characterize patient-reported factors beyond scalp hair loss that contribute to AA severity while modifying for socioeconomic factors. Methods: Patients with AA were recruited to take a survey. Multivariable linear regression was performed to evaluate lifetime AA severity while adjusting for socioeconomic variables, current AA severity at the time of survey, and patient-reported disease burden. Results: Patient-reported AA severity was associated with scalp hair loss (OR: 4.19, 95% CI: [1.35-13], p = 0.013), facial hair loss (OR: 3.55, 95% CI: [1.75-7.21], p < 0.001), increased financial burden (OR: 2.41, 95% CI: [1.21-4.8], p = 0.013), and greater emotional burden (OR: 2.96, 95% CI: [1.48-5.93], p = 0.002), while presence of comorbidities were linked to less severe AA (OR: 0.38, 95% CI: [0.17-0.84], p = 0.017). Conclusion:...

Standardizing multiphoton microscopy for clinical melanoma diagnosis

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Standardizing multiphoton microscopy for clinical melanoma diagnosis

Non-invasive, label-free, two-photon detection of epithelial metabolic precursors to repigmentation in vitiligo micrografts

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Non-invasive, label-free, two-photon detection of epithelial metabolic precursors to repigmentation in vitiligo micrografts

In-vivo optical microscopy and single cell transcriptomics approaches provide insights into therapeutic response of vitiligo

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In-vivo optical microscopy and single cell transcriptomics approaches provide insights into therapeutic response of vitiligo

In vivo optical imaging of vitiligo skin grafting treatment using multiphoton microscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy (Conference Presentation)

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In vivo optical imaging of vitiligo skin grafting treatment using multiphoton microscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy (Conference Presentation)

Meeting Highlights The 4th Marie Skłodowska-Curie Symposium on cancer research and care: Mechanisms of support for regional & international collaborations

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Symposia on Cancer Research and Care (MSCS-CRC) promote collaborations between cancer researchers and care providers in the United States, Canada and Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) to accelerate the development of new cancer therapies, new strategies for early detection and prevention, and improve cancer care and the quality of life for patients and their families. The 4th MSCS-CRC (September 25-27, 2024, Buffalo, New York) brought together 147 participants from the US, Canada, Croatia, Czechia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Ukraine, and involved representatives of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Cancer Institute (NCI) and their counterparts from Poland, Ukraine Lithuania and other CEECs. They were accompanied by New York State (NYS) and local representatives of the NYS Empire State Development, and of the Translational Research Consortium of Cancer Centers (TRCCC), involving 13 cancer centers from the...

Advancements in time-resolved detection for in vivo multiphoton microscopy of human skin

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Advancements in time-resolved detection for in vivo multiphoton microscopy of human skin

Nicolau Syndrome After Glatiramer Acetate Injection in Close Proximity to Administration of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccine

Wed, 14 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Nicolau Syndrome After Glatiramer Acetate Injection in Close Proximity to Administration of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccine

GSLab: open-source platform for advanced phasor analysis in fluorescence microscopy

Wed, 14 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

SUMMARY: GSLab addresses the need for effective image analysis tools in fluorescence microscopy by providing an open-source platform that enhances traditional phasor analysis with advanced features. Key capabilities include machine learning-based clustering, real-time monitoring, and quantitative unmixing of fluorescent species. Designed for both commercial and custom systems, GSLab provides researchers with comprehensive lifetime and spectral phasor image analysis tools to tackle complex biological problems. AVAILABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION: The software is written as a MATLAB app. It is available for download at: https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.27921966. Example files and tutorials are also available: https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.28067108. For developers who wish to contribute please use: https://github.com/AlexVallmitjana/GSLab. A compiled Windows installer (does not require MATLAB) is available at: https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.28655276.

A rare case of pediatric cutaneous bullous mastocytosis

Wed, 14 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A rare case of pediatric cutaneous bullous mastocytosis

Effective and durable repigmentation for stable vitiligo: A randomized within-subject controlled trial assessing treatment with autologous skin cell suspension transplantation

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: Vitiligo lesions are often challenging to repigment with conventional medical therapies. Surgical autologous melanocyte transfer methods can be utilized for stable vitiligo but demand specialized skills and equipment. A point-of-care autologous cell harvesting device was designed enabling simple preparation of autologous skin cell suspension (ASCS) containing melanocytes, keratinocytes, and fibroblasts providing a straightforward approach for cellular transplantation. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of ASCS for repigmentation of stable vitiligo lesions among adults. METHODS: A US multicenter, randomized, within-subject controlled trial compared ASCS to narrow band ultraviolet B only (Control) in similar vitiligo lesions. ASCS was applied after laser skin resurfacing and followed by narrow band ultraviolet B treatment. The primary effectiveness endpoint was the proportion of lesions achieving ≥80% repigmentation at week-24. Repigmentation durability...

Parsing patterns: Emerging roles of tissue self-organization in health and disease

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Patterned morphologies, such as segments, spirals, stripes, and spots, frequently emerge during embryogenesis through self-organized coordination between cells. Yet, complex patterns also emerge in adults, suggesting that the capacity for spontaneous self-organization is a ubiquitous property of biological tissues. We review current knowledge on the principles and mechanisms of self-organized patterning in embryonic tissues and explore how these principles and mechanisms apply to adult tissues that exhibit features of patterning. We discuss how and why spontaneous pattern generation is integral to homeostasis and healing of tissues, illustrating it with examples from regenerative biology. We examine how aberrant self-organization underlies diverse pathological states, including inflammatory skin disorders and tumors. Lastly, we posit that based on such blueprints, targeted engineering of pattern-driving molecular circuits can be leveraged for synthetic biology and the generation...

Exosomes What Is Going on?

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Exosomes What Is Going on?

Alopecia as an Adverse Event of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapies: Clinical Evidence and Outcomes.

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Immunotherapy utilizing immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) such as PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA-4 inhibitors has revolutionized cancer therapy by enhancing T cell recognition and attack against cancer cells.1 Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are a limitation of ICI therapy, encompassing various manifestations such as colitis and cutaneous adverse events such as dermatitis, alopecia, and vitiligo.2 Hair loss is a common concern of cancer patients as they embark on their therapeutic paths. The evidence on alopecia from isolated clinical trials with ICI therapies is limited and largely lacks diagnostic and prognostic details to help guide patients.3,4 In this systematic review, we examined the types of alopecia as part of the irAEs of ICI therapy, timing of onset, prognosis, and treatment approaches. Our analysis includes 19 studies describing new-onset non-scarring or scarring alopecia following ICI treatment. Alopecia was a rare adverse event in the setting of ICIs (n=26) with the...

Interruption of the intratumor CD8+ T cell:Treg crosstalk improves the efficacy of PD-1 immunotherapy

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

PD-1 blockade unleashes potent antitumor activity in CD8⁺ T cells but can also promote immunosuppressive T regulatory (Treg) cells, which may worsen the response to immunotherapy. Tumor-Treg inhibition is a promising strategy to improve the efficacy of checkpoint blockade immunotherapy; however, our understanding of the mechanisms supporting tumor-Tregs during PD-1 immunotherapy is incomplete. Here, we show that PD-1 blockade increases tumor-Tregs in mouse models of melanoma and metastatic melanoma patients. Mechanistically, Treg accumulation is not caused by Treg-intrinsic inhibition of PD-1 signaling but depends on an indirect effect of activated CD8⁺ T cells. CD8⁺ T cells produce IL-2 and colocalize with Tregs in mouse and human melanomas. IL-2 upregulates the anti-apoptotic protein ICOS on tumor-Tregs, promoting their accumulation. Inhibition of ICOS signaling before PD-1 immunotherapy improves control over immunogenic melanoma....

TONE: A Large, Prospective Post-Approval Study Investigating the Repigmentation of Stable Vitiligo Lesions Using a Point-of-Care Autologous Cell Harvesting Device

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Vitiligo is a depigmenting autoimmune skin disorder caused by loss of melanocytes, impacting 0.5% to 2% of the global population.1-3 For patients with stable vitiligo, surgery allows for physical transplantation of healthy melanocytes to a lesion lacking functional melanocytes.1,4 A combination approach incorporating vitiligo surgery with pharmacotherapy may be recommended in some patients, as employing multiple modalities can improve repigmentation response.4 A point-of-care Autologous Cell Harvesting Device, FDA-approved for the repigmentation of stable vitiligo lesions, prepares autologous skin cell suspension (ASCS) to be applied onto laser-ablated lesions.5 Previously reported, the randomized, within-subject controlled pivotal trial found that 36% of ASCS-treated lesions achieved ≥80% repigmentation at 24 weeks post-treatment, versus 0% of control lesions.6 Here, we report on TONE, a post-approval trial using this device. Objective: This multi-center,...

624 - Vitiligo biomarker CXCL10 correlates with clinical response in the phase 2 randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled TRuE-V mechanism of action study

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract: Introduction/Background: Ruxolitinib cream is a topical formulation of the selective Janus kinase (JAK) 1/JAK2 inhibitor ruxolitinib and is the first and only repigmentation treatment approved by the US Food and Drug Administration and European Commission for nonsegmental vitiligo in patients ≥12 years old. Objectives: To evaluate treatment-associated changes in biomarkers among patients with vitiligo, correlate changes in key biomarkers with efficacy, and assess the safety and tolerability of ruxolitinib cream. Methods: The phase 2, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled TRuE-V mechanism of action study (NCT04896385) was conducted in adult patients (≥18 years) with vitiligo ≤50% of total body surface area. Patients were randomized 2:1 to twice-daily 1.5% ruxolitinib...

The emerging role of photodynamic therapy in the treatment of cutaneous infections.

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

INTRODUCTION: Cutaneous infections pose ongoing challenges to standard treatments due to resistance and limited efficacy. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) emerges as a promising supplement or an alternative to address complicated cases. In this review, we comprehensively review PDT's safety and efficacy in treating cutaneous infections. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: A PubMed systematic review with search terms for PDT treatment, hair, skin, and nail infections. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: There were a total of 43 studies on the use of PDT in cutaneous infections which discussed the treatment of viral (N.=20), bacterial (N.=11), fungal (N.=9), and protozoal (N.=3) infections. There is evidence for using PDT, mostly 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) and methyl aminolevulinate (MAL), in the treatment of cutaneous infections. Most evidence for viral infections involved treatment with 5-ALA PDT in condyloma acuminatum (CoAc), verruca vulgaris, and molluscum contagiosum. In bacterial infections, 5-ALA and MB...

Immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated linear IgA bullous dermatosis with recalcitrant ocular involvement: a rare presentation

Fri, 4 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Programmed death-1 (PD-1) and programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) receptor inhibitors have become imperative in the treatment of advanced solid organ malignancies such as metastatic melanoma. With this disinhibition of certain immune responses to induce an antitumour response, numerous adverse events have been reported, many of which affect the skin. While rare, PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor-associated severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs) can cause significant morbidity and/or mortality. New SCARs are reported with increasing frequency as immune checkpoint inhibitors become more widely used. Here, we present a rare case of recalcitrant ocular linear IgA bullous dermatosis associated with a PD-1 inhibitor. Awareness of this entity will allow more rapid recognition and initiation of appropriate management and treatment, which would reduce the morbidity and/or mortality associated with these serious adverse reactions.

The AhR-Ovol1-Id1 regulatory axis in keratinocytes promotes epidermal and immune homeostasis in atopic dermatitis-like skin inflammation

Tue, 1 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The skin is our outer permeability and immune defense barrier against myriad external assaults. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) senses environmental factors and regulates barrier robustness and immune homeostasis. AhR agonists have been approved by the FDA for psoriasis treatment and are in clinical trials for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD), but the underlying mechanism of action remains poorly defined. Here, we report that OVOL1/Ovol1 is a conserved and direct transcriptional target of AhR in epidermal keratinocytes. We show that OVOL1/Ovol1 influences AhR-mediated regulation of keratinocyte gene expression and that OVOL1/Ovol1 ablation in keratinocytes impairs the barrier-promoting function of AhR, exacerbating AD-like inflammation. Mechanistically, we have identified Ovol1’s direct downstream targets genome-wide and provided in vivo evidence supporting the role of Id1 as a functional target in barrier maintenance, disease suppression, and neutrophil accumulation....

The effects of age and dysfunction on meibomian gland population dynamics

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

PURPOSE: While meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is widely recognized as a major cause of evaporative dry eye disease, little is known about normal gland differentiation and lipid synthesis or the mechanism underlying gland atrophy and abnormal lipid secretion. The purpose of this study was to use single-cell and spatial transcriptomics to probe changes in cell composition, differentiation, and gene expression associated with two murine models of MGD: age-related gland atrophy in wild-type mice and altered meibum quality in acyl-CoA wax alcohol acyltransferase 2 (Awat2) knockout (KO) mice. METHODS: Young (6 month) and old (22 month) wild type, C57Bl/6 mice and young (3 month) and old (13 month) Awat2 KO mice were used in these studies. For single-cell analysis, the tarsal plate was dissected from the upper and lower eyelids, and single cells isolated and submitted to the UCI Genomic Core, while for the spatial analysis frozen tissue sections were shipped to Resolve Biosciences...

Insights Into Demographics, Comorbidities, and Risk Factors in Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars: A Retrospective Study.

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Hypertrophic scars and keloids represent abnormal wound healing, manifesting as raised scars confined to or extending beyond the wound margin, respectively. Understanding the risk factors associated with these scarring types is crucial for prevention and management. Utilizing the TriNetX global health research network database, we analyzed the data of 6,249 patients with hypertrophic scars or keloids. We employed the ICD-10 code L91.0 for identification, generating a control cohort matched by age, sex, and race. Associations between scarring and race, ethnicity, and various comorbidities were quantified. The analysis revealed that hypertrophic scars and keloids were more commonly associated with Black/African American individuals (OR=1.74, P<0.01) and less so with White races and Hispanic ethnicity. Significant comorbidities associated with increased risk included scarring alopecia, rosacea, atopic dermatitis, and acne. Inadequate sample size limited analysis for conditions...

Legislative efforts to expand insurance coverage of wigs for individuals with medical causes of alopecia

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Legislative efforts to expand insurance coverage of wigs for individuals with medical causes of alopecia

INDIVIDUAL ARTICLE: Insights on the Impact of Scalp Barrier Condition on Hair Health.

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Scalp health is essential for healthy hair growth and may be affected by intrinsic or extrinsic factors. Reactive oxygens species are key contributors to aging and can have a detrimental impact on scalp health. Oxidative stress on the scalp is thought to be a factor in developing dandruff. We present consensus statements on scalp barrier health and its effects on hair through a systematic literature search and expert panel discussion. Three dermatologists with extensive experience in hair were selected to form a panel that formulated consensus statements that would best capture the current understanding of scalp health. The consensus statements developed and presented in this manuscript highlight the current literature and broader discussion surrounding scalp health and its impact on hair and dandruff. It also highlights the often-overlooked effects of scalp conditions on hair health and growth. Through our research, we found that there has been minimal emphasis on scalp health...

Current evidence on safety of Janus kinase inhibitors in pregnancy and lactation

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Current evidence on safety of Janus kinase inhibitors in pregnancy and lactation

Low-Dose Oral Minoxidil Initiation for Patients With Hair Loss

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Importance: The results of small studies suggest that off-label use of low-dose oral minoxidil (LDOM) may be safe and effective for patients with hair loss, but larger trials and standardized guidelines are lacking. Objective: To create an expert consensus statement for LDOM prescribing for patients with hair loss. Evidence Review: The current literature on the pharmacological properties, adverse effect profile, and use of LDOM for patients with hair loss was reviewed. Topics of interest were identified, and a modified Delphi consensus process was created. A total of 43 hair loss specialist dermatologists from 12 countries participated in a modified Delphi process. Consensus was reached if at least 70% agreed or strongly agreed on a 5-point Likert scale. Findings: Over 4 survey rounds, 180 items in the first round, 121 items in the second round, 16 items in the third round, and 11 items in the fourth round were considered and revised. A total of 76 items achieved consensus including...

INDIVIDUAL ARTICLE: Etiology, Treatment Challenges, and the Role of Scalp and Haircare in Managing Dandruff.

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis are associated with a disrupted scalp barrier that contributes to irritation, pruritus, and flaking of the scalp. The flaking and itch associated with dandruff can significantly impact an individual's self-esteem and quality of life. While the exact pathogenesis of dandruff is still not completely understood, scalp barrier health and its microbiome are thought to play significant roles in disease propagation. Five expert dermatologists with extensive experience in hair, dandruff, and seborrheic dermatitis were selected to participate in discussions that would result in five consensus statements focused on scalp barrier health and dandruff. Results of a systematic literature search and expert panel discussion are presented. These consensus statements aim to reflect expert opinions on the current understanding of scalp health in the context of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. The panel addressed challenges to promote scalp health, improve patient...

Leveraging gene correlations in single cell transcriptomic data

Mon, 3 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: Many approaches have been developed to overcome technical noise in single cell RNA-sequencing (scRNAseq). As researchers dig deeper into data-looking for rare cell types, subtleties of cell states, and details of gene regulatory networks-there is a growing need for algorithms with controllable accuracy and fewer ad hoc parameters and thresholds. Impeding this goal is the fact that an appropriate null distribution for scRNAseq cannot simply be extracted from data when ground truth about biological variation is unknown (i.e., usually). RESULTS: We approach this problem analytically, assuming that scRNAseq data reflect only cell heterogeneity (what we seek to characterize), transcriptional noise (temporal fluctuations randomly distributed across cells), and sampling error (i.e., Poisson noise). We analyze scRNAseq data without normalization-a step that skews distributions, particularly for sparse data-and calculate p-values associated with key statistics....

PILOT STUDY ON IN VIVO MULTIPHOTON-MICROSCOPY OF LASER-INDUCED OPTICAL BREAKDOWN IN HUMAN SKIN

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

PILOT STUDY ON IN VIVO MULTIPHOTON-MICROSCOPY OF LASER-INDUCED OPTICAL BREAKDOWN IN HUMAN SKIN

ASSESSMENT OF SKIN STRUCTURE BY COMBINED PHOTOTHERMAL RADIOMETRY AND OPTICAL SPECTROSCOPY: COREGISTRATION WITH MULTI-PHOTON MICROSCOPY

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

ASSESSMENT OF SKIN STRUCTURE BY COMBINED PHOTOTHERMAL RADIOMETRY AND OPTICAL SPECTROSCOPY: COREGISTRATION WITH MULTI-PHOTON MICROSCOPY

Picking a Side: Preferential Laterality in Scalp Hair Density