NIH R01 · 2024
Staphylococcus aureus induced itch and neuro-immune signaling in skin infections
PROJECT SUMMARY Itch is an unpleasant sensation that evokes a desire to scratch. While itch accompanies many skin infections, a causative role for microbes in itch has not been previously investigated. Itch-induced scratching can contribute to significant skin damage and bacterial pathogenesis. Here, we investigate the role of the human bacterial pathogen Staphylococcus aureus and its secreted proteases in driving itch and inflammation. S. aureus colonizes 90% of skin lesions caused by Atopic Dermatitis, a disease characterized by chronic itch. S. aureus also causes impetigo, a contagious skin disease characterized by itchy lesions. We hypothesize that S. aureus secretes proteases that can…
From the public funding record at NIH RePORTER. Describes the funded project, not the reviews below.