Understanding the modifiers of growth in generalised junctional and dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. (Reimer 1)
Ongoing| Project lead | Dr. Antonia Reimer |
| Organisation | University of Freiburg Medical Center, Freiburg, GERMANY |
| Project budget | EUR 90,616.00 + 12 months time only extension |
| Start date / Duration | 01. Apr 2018 / 48 months |
| Funder(s) / Co-Funder(s) | DEBRA Austria, MSAP/EBEP Recommended |
| Research area | EB genetics, epigenetics & biology |
Project details
Short lay summary
Although Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is primarily a skin disease, it may often affect multiple organs. Individuals suffering from generalised dystrophic (DEB) and junctional EB (JEB), may show reduced growth and anaemia as a result of impaired nutrition. However, the extent to which growth retardation is solely the product of specific genetic defects or whether other factors can also modify its course remains unsubstantiated. This project will investigate the “natural history” of generalised JEB and dystrophic EB by following a large, clinically and molecularly well-characterised group of patients. Its purpose is to correlate data on weight and height development with nutritional parameters, the profile of inflammatory molecules in serum, and the bacterial species that populate wounds. It will include data from the clinic as well as genetic and molecular biology laboratory analysis of serum samples and skin swabs. Some of the data are already available (retrospective study), but some will be collected during this project (prospective study). This study is expected to contribute to the assessment of the impact of nutrition, anaemia, chronic inflammation, the extent of skin affection, and the microbiome on growth. The expected results could improve the care for children with EB, as they would help clinicians in prognosis. By deepening our understanding of the biology and genetics of EB, it could also help in the development of new therapies.
Scientific summary
Impaired growth is a common extracutaneous manifestation of epidermolysis bullosa (EB). Our project will identify growth determinants in patients with generalised dystrophic and junctional EB. The study is based on a large, clinically and molecularly well-characterised cohort. We will combine retrospective and prospective studies of weight and height development with parameters of nutrition, inflammation and the microbiome. The new knowledge of disease-modifying factors and natural history will help to reduce disease burden and to develop new strategies to treat EB. This knowledge will also facilitate patient stratification to new therapies developed from the understanding of EB’s biology and genetics.
Strategic relevance
This project will generate EB-specific growth charts for body weight, height and body mass index (BMI). These charts can serve as a valuable prognostic tool in assessing the development of children with EB, help identify distinct disease modifiers and allow for improved care. They can also aid in planning interventions and dosage of medications. Furthermore, this natural history study of EB may facilitate patient stratification for new therapies.