Our Science – DB Website

Dermatology Branch

Research

The Dermatology Branch conducts both clinical and basic research studying the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of inflammatory and malignant diseases involving the skin and the host's response to these diseases. The basic research involves biochemical as well as biological studies of skin and is subdivided into seven separate, though frequently interacting, areas. More specifically, the research areas of interest include the role of skin as an immunological organ, the role of accessory cell molecules in the generation of cellular immune responses, and the role of adhesion molecules in inherited and acquired blistering diseases as well as their role in other inflammatory and neoplastic diseases. Other studies include the use of skin and, in particular, keratinocytes in gene therapy; the virologic and immunologic mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of a variety of HIV-associated skin diseases; and DNA repair in normal human cells and in cells from patients with xeroderma pigmentosum and Alzheimer's disease. In addition, the branch conducts clinical studies, both diagnostic and therapeutic, in a broad range of diseases. It is also responsible for patient consultations throughout the Clinical Center.

The Dermatology Branch has a long tradition of being a fellowship training center for individuals who have become outstanding scientists and leaders in investigative dermatology in the United States and abroad. During their fellowship, our trainees have won many national awards as outstanding young investigators.

This page was last updated on 8/26/2008.