Future Skin Cancer Risk In Children May Be Increased By Beach Vacations

Vacationing at the shore led to a 5 percent increase in nevi (more commonly called "moles") among 7-year-old children, according to a paper published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention, a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research.



Number of nevi is the major risk factor for malignant melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer. Melanoma rates have been rising dramatically over recent decades. More than 62,000 Americans are diagnosed with melanoma each year and more than 8,000 die.



The study was conducted among children who lived in Colorado, but lead author Lori Crane, Ph.D., M.P.H., chair of the Department of Community and Behavioral Health at the Colorado School of Public Health, said the findings are applicable worldwide.



"Parents of young children need to be cautious about taking their kids on vacations that are going to be sun-intensive at waterside locations, where people are outside for whole days at a time in skin-exposing swimsuits," said Crane.



Crane said parents often mistakenly believe that sunscreen is a cure-all. Although it does offer some protection, the likelihood is that children stay out in the sun longer, thus increasing their risk.



"We recommend that, for young children, parents keep the kids involved in indoor activities from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to decrease risk, or if they are to be outside, that they wear shirts with sleeves," said Crane.



Crane and colleagues examined 681 white children born in 1998 who were lifetime residents of Colorado. Vacation histories were assessed by interview and skin exams were used to evaluate the development of nevi.



Researchers observed that each waterside vacation one or more years prior to the exam at age 7 was linked to a 5 percent increase in nevi, or skin moles, less than two mm. "Daily sun exposure at home did not seem to be related to the number of moles, while waterside vacations were. Vacations may impart some unique risk for melanoma," said Crane.



Crane and colleagues also found that young boys had a 19 percent higher risk than young girls for nevi development. "This may be due to an increased likelihood among boys to want to stay outdoors," said Crane.



Finally, higher incomes were associated with greater risk, as those with higher incomes were more likely to take waterside vacations.


The mission of the American Association for Cancer Research is to prevent and cure cancer. Founded in 1907, AACR is the world's oldest and largest professional organization dedicated to advancing cancer research. The membership includes more than 28,000 basic, translational and clinical researchers; health care professionals; and cancer survivors and advocates in the United States and 80 other countries. The AACR marshals the full spectrum of expertise from the cancer community to accelerate progress in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer through high-quality scientific and educational programs. It funds innovative, meritorious research grants. The AACR Annual Meeting attracts more than 17,000 participants who share the latest discoveries and developments in the field. Special conferences throughout the year present novel data across a wide variety of topics in cancer research, treatment and patient care. The AACR publishes five major peer-reviewed journals: Cancer Research; Clinical Cancer Research; Molecular Cancer Therapeutics; Molecular Cancer Research; and Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention. The AACR's most recent publication and its sixth major journal, Cancer Prevention Research, is dedicated exclusively to cancer prevention, from preclinical research to clinical trials. The AACR also publishes CR, a magazine for cancer survivors and their families, patient advocates, physicians and scientists. CR provides a forum for sharing essential, evidence-based information and perspectives on progress in cancer research, survivorship and advocacy.

Patients Say MPM Medical's Regenecare Gel Significantly Reduced The Itching And Pain Of Skin Rashes Triggered By Anti Cancer Drugs

Patients undergoing cancer treatment reported that using Regenecare hydrogel significantly reduced the pain and itching associated with the sometimes-severe skin rashes caused by anti-cancer drugs.


Conducted by the Western University of Health Sciences, the study substantiated the findings of nine previous clinical trials recognizing Regenecare for its pain-relieving and wound-healing benefits. Manufactured by MPM Medical, Inc., Regenecare is the only wound and pain management product of its kind on the market.


"Pain management is one of the most-significant issues facing healthcare today," said MPM President Paul Miller. "Many patients stop or forgo treatment because they cannot tolerate the itching and painful side effects often associated with these treatments. Regenecare is a unique hydrogel whose benefits are substantiated by science and validated by patients."


The six-week study followed 13 patients who were taking a class of anti-cancer drugs that, while effective, often produce a severe rash on a patient's face, neck, back and legs. If scratched, these rashes can become infected. Patients reported "significant reduction" of itching when using Regenecare, according to the study.


Researchers credit Regenecare's unparalleled pain relief and wound healing to its formulation of 2% lidocaine (for local pain management), marine collagen (to promote tissue formation), Aloe vera (to enhance circulation and to promote emollient effect) and sodium alginate (to absorb exudates).


"Pain is the leading cause of disability in the United States and is straining our healthcare system," according to the National Pain Care Policy Act of 2008 (H.R. 2994). Among other things, the pending legislation seeks "to improve the assessment, understanding and treatment of pain."


MPM offers Regenecare HA as an over-the-counter version of the prescription Regenecare. Regenecare HA has the same formulation, but it also contains hyaluronic acid, which enhances moisture and healing. Consumers may purchase Regenecare and other MPM products online at MPMmedicalinc.


About RBC Life SciencesRBC Life Sciences (OTC Bulletin Board: RBCL) develops, manufactures and markets high-quality nutritional supplements and personal care products to a growing population of consumers seeking wellness and a healthy lifestyle. Under its MPM Medical, Inc., brand, RBC Life Sciences also develops and markets to health care professionals in the United States proprietary prescription and nonprescription products for advanced wound care and pain management. All products are tested for quality assurance in-house, and by outside independent laboratories, to comply with regulations in the U.S. and in more than thirty countries in which the products are distributed. For more information, visit the Company's Web site at rbclifesciences.


The statements above, other than statements of historical fact, may be forward-looking. Actual events will be dependent upon a number of factors and risks including, but not limited to, changes in plans by the Company's management, delays or problems in production, changes in the regulatory process, changes in market trends, and a number of other factors and risks described from time to time in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.


RBC Life Sciences

rbclifesciences

First Systemic Therapy For Fatal Childhood Disease Performed By U Of M

University of Minnesota Children's Hospital, Fairview physicians have performed the first bone marrow and cord blood transplant to treat recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB).



Children with RDEB lack a protein that anchors skin to the body, resulting in fragile skin that sloughs off with little movement or friction. They suffer painful wounds and must be bandaged at all times to protect their skin from further damage and infection. The 18-month-old boy who was transplanted has the most severe form of RDEB, which also causes skin to slough off on the inside of the body, affecting the mouth, esophagus, and gastrointestinal tract. EB is genetic and severe forms are always fatal. Those who live to be young adults get an aggressive form of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma.



With the help of an EB mouse model and in collaboration with investigators at Columbia University, University of Minnesota researchers were able to correct the disease in mice using bone marrow. They tested various types of adult stem cells to determine which would give rise to the development of type VII collagen -- the protein people with RDEB lack. One type of immature cells from bone marrow proved to be the best at producing anchoring fibrils that bind the skin to the body.



This is the first time physicians have approached EB from a systemic perspective, using transplant as a means to rid the body of the defective blood system and replace it with a healthy blood system that produces type VII collagen.



"Our goal is to determine the usefulness of stem cells, whether from the umbilical cord blood or adult tissues like bone marrow, in the treatment of human disease," said John E. Wagner, M.D., professor of Pediatrics and director of the Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Blood and Marrow Transplantation and director of clinical research of the Stem Cell Institute at the University of Minnesota. "There are hundreds of thousands of children and adults waiting for new breakthroughs in stem cell research, and time is never enough. In two years, the team was able to move this project forward remarkably fast -- from testing in animal models to treating patients. Time will tell whether this risky treatment will work as effectively in humans. But, RDEB is a horribly debilitating, life-threatening disease with no existing curative therapy."



The boy received both umbilical cord blood and bone marrow from a perfectly matched sibling. If the results mimic the animal model, doctors anticipate the healthy blood system will aid in the skin's ability to produce type VII collagen necessary to anchor the skin and lining cells of the gastrointestinal tract to the body. Doctors anticipate in early 2008 -- approximately 100 days after transplant -- they will be able to judge whether this the treatment helped.



"This represents a real change in thinking within the dermatological community. The possibility of this approach compels us to explore more broadly the way some skin diseases are typically treated," said Maria Hordinsky, M.D., head of the Department of Dermatology at the University of Minnesota and member of the care team.







The pediatric BMT program at the University of Minnesota Children's Hospital, Fairview is internationally recognized for its pioneering work in umbilical cord blood and bone marrow transplantation, including the world's first successful BMT in 1968. In 2000, Wagner and team performed the first umbilical cord blood transplant from a sibling donor "created" after embryo selection. The program leads the nation in the use of umbilical cord blood in the treatment of adults and children and in the development of innovative treatments of various rare genetic diseases such as adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) and Fanconi anemia.



The transplant was done as part of a clinical trial funded by donations made to the University of Minnesota EB Fund and Children's Cancer Research Fund in Minneapolis.

Bradley Pharmaceuticals Skin Cancer Screening Tour Helps Save Lives By Encouraging Visits To Dermatologists

Bradley
Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NYSE: BDY) announced today that The Skin Cancer
Screening Tour, sponsored by Bradley's Doak Dermatologics subsidiary in
partnership with The Skin Cancer Foundation, has screened to date more than
3400 individuals. In addition, the media coverage surrounding the Screening
Tour has helped raise awareness of the importance of visiting a
dermatologist, even beyond the scope of the Tour, for early detection of
skin cancer.


At each stop on the Tour, local dermatologists volunteer their time in
the 38-foot Mobile Diagnosis Vehicle (MDv), custom-built by Doak
Dermatologics, performing free skin cancer examinations in two fully
outfitted exam rooms. To date, almost 40% of those screened were identified
as requiring further medical attention for a cancer-related skin condition.


Among the more than 3400 people screened, participating physicians have
identified the following:


-- 825 people with Actinic Keratosis
Actinic Keratosis (AK) affects 1.3 million people annually. AK is the
most common type of precancerous skin lesion. If left untreated, AK can
lead to Squamous Cell Carcinoma.


-- 94 with Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is a form of skin cancer that affects
200,000 Americans each year. SCCs can spread quickly.


-- 303 with Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is a common form of skin cancer, affecting
more than 800,000 Americans annually.


-- 37 with Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer and has increased more
rapidly than any other form of skin cancer during the past 10 years.
Similar to previously mentioned conditions, if melanoma is diagnosed
and removed early, it is almost 100 percent curable.


Doak created The Skin Cancer Screening Tour in response to the
Company's knowledge of the prevalence of skin cancer, heightened by the
acquisition of a major topical therapy for the precancerous skin condition
Actinic Keratosis. More than 1.3 million people will be diagnosed with skin
cancer this year, and in the US, there are more cases of skin cancer than
breast, prostate, lung and colon cancers combined. Because early detection
and treatment are critical to a positive outcome, Doak launched The Skin
Cancer Screening Tour as a public service.


In addition to carrying out screenings on the MDv, The Skin Cancer
Screening Tour is conducting a skin cancer awareness campaign in major
media outlets across the country, urging people to be screened whether
aboard the MDv or by their local dermatologist. For those who cannot visit
the MDv, Doak has created a website with a full listing of dermatologists
by zip code. To date, information on the Tour has appeared in over 250
newspapers and national magazines and on numerous local TV and radio
stations, enabling millions of people to be exposed to the message. For
example, on May 29, 2006, Bradley President and CEO, Daniel Glassman,
appeared on America Health Radio with Scott Broder to discuss the
importance of regular skin cancer screenings. According to Mr. Broder, this
segment was "one of the most popular and well-received shows ever broadcast
on American Health Radio."















Mr. Glassman stated, "Through its Doak Dermatologics subsidiary,
Bradley is extremely proud to be a part of this important effort to draw
attention to the importance of annual screenings and early detection for
skin cancer. We are particularly grateful to the local dermatologists who
have provided their skill and time to this important initiative. We
recognize there is a skin cancer epidemic, and drawing the public's
attention to the necessity of regular visits to dermatologists is a
critical step in gaining control of it. We believe that the statistics from
this tour show that we are helping to generate important awareness, and
encouraging people to visit their dermatologist."


The MDv has conducted screenings in San Francisco; Los Angeles;
Phoenix; Dallas; Houston; Tampa; Miami; West Palm Beach; Atlanta;
Nashville; Avalon, New Jersey; Chicago; and is currently at locations in
Washington, DC, including the Pentagon. The Tour will be traveling through
the Northeastern US during the second half of 2006 and will be extended
into 2007.


To learn more about The Skin Cancer Screening Tour and find a list of
upcoming stops, please visit skincancerscreeningtour.


Please visit Bradley Pharmaceuticals web site at: bradpharm
Bradley Pharmaceuticals common stock is listed on the NYSE under the
symbol BDY.


Bradley Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NYSE: BDY) was founded in 1985 as a
specialty pharmaceutical company and markets to niche physician specialties
in the U.S. and 38 international markets. Bradley's success is based on the
strategy of Acquire, Enhance and Grow. Bradley Acquires non-strategic
brands, Enhances these brands with line extensions and improved
formulations and Grows the products through promotion, advertising and
selling activities to optimize life cycle management. Bradley
Pharmaceuticals is comprised of Doak Dermatologics, specializing in topical
therapies for dermatology and podiatry; Kenwood Therapeutics, providing
gastroenterology, respiratory and other internal medicine brands; and A.
Aarons, which markets authorized generic versions of Doak and Kenwood
therapies.


Important announcement:


July 26-30, 2006 - Doak Dermatologics will be exhibiting at the Summer
Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology, held in San Diego, CA.


August 7-10, 2006 - Doak Dermatologics will be exhibiting at the American
Podiatric Medical Association, held in Las Vegas, NV.


Daniel Glassman will present at the RBC's Healthcare Conference, to be
held in New York City, December 12-14, 2006.


Daniel Glassman will present at the Raymond James & Associates 28th
Annual Institutional Investors Conference, to be held at the Hyatt
Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando, FL., March 4-7, 2007.


Bradley Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

bradpharm

Dermatologists Can Help Minimize The Effects Of Stress And Emotions On Skin, Hair And Nails

In the emotional rollercoaster of life, sometimes the "down" periods have long-lasting effects on more than just our mood. In fact, numerous studies link factors that impact our emotional well-being such as stress, depression and anxiety to an increase in skin, hair or nail problems. Now, dermatologists are advising patients to recognize these secondary symptoms and to seek treatment early before they cause additional stress.


Speaking today at the American Academy of Dermatology's SKIN academy (Academy), dermatologist and clinical psychologist Richard G. Fried, MD, PhD, FAAD, of Yardley, Pa., discussed the reciprocal relationship between feelings and appearance, and how failing to address these concerns can affect how we look, feel and function.


"When patients are going through a rough period in their lives, negative emotions can wreak havoc on their appearance," said Dr. Fried. "So, as a result, patients might start to notice that their hair is thinning, their skin is inflamed or their nails are brittle which can be physical manifestations of their mental state. These unwanted physical changes can have a profoundly negative impact on how they feel. The negative emotions can trigger a vicious cycle of worsening skin, hair and nails leading to worsening of their emotional state and can lead to further worsening of the skin problem. Dermatologists can play a key role in helping patients not only alleviate these physical symptoms, but also help enhance their quality of life during a difficult time."


Psychodermatology Interventions


Stress can manifest itself on one's appearance in many ways, primarily by making the skin more sensitive and more reactive. For example, Dr. Fried noted that stress can make rosacea more red, result in acne lesions that are more inflamed and more persistent, cause brittle nails and ridging of the nails, cause hair loss, cause or worsen hives, and cause excessive perspiration. In addition, stress also is a known trigger or can be a worsening factor for fever blisters, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis and has even been shown to impair skin barrier function and dehydrate the skin allowing more irritants, allergens, and infectious agents to penetrate the skin and cause problems. Stressed skin often appears stressed, distressed and older.















"When it comes to treating patients who we suspect may be experiencing skin, hair or nail problems as a result of stress or other emotional factors, it is helpful to ask them whether their skin seems to look or feel worse when they are stressed," said Dr. Fried. "Beyond the direct physiological effects of stress, patients under stress also tend to neglect or abuse their skin, lacking the energy and motivation to adhere to their skin care regimens. There also might be signs of stress-related behaviors such as scratching, pulling or rubbing that can exacerbate problems."


To successfully treat stress-related dermatologic conditions, Dr. Fried recommends that traditional dermatologic therapies should be used in conjunction with appropriate stress management strategies. For example, Dr. Fried discussed how stress reduction interventions and techniques can reduce the culmination of negative events that can worsen many of these problems.


To illustrate the seriousness of living with skin problems, Dr. Fried points to studies showing that people tend to be more distressed by skin, hair or nail problems since they are so visible and uncomfortable, than by other serious medical conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes.


"When dermatologists treat both the skin and stress, the skin often clears more quickly and completely as the native influences of stress are diminished," said Dr. Fried. "Consequently, their overall anxiety level can decrease and they may start to feel better about how they look and how they're feeling emotionally."


Moving to the microscopic level, Dr. Fried added that stress reduction can decrease the release of pro-inflammatory stress hormones and chemicals. For example, release of neuropeptides (or stress chemicals released from the nerve endings) can be reduced with stress management techniques. This often results in skin that looks and functions better. These interventions can reduce blood vessel over-activity, resulting in less blushing or flushing. Decreasing stress allows the patient to focus more positive energy on good skin care rather than negative behaviors.


"It is fair to say that when people are under stress, they tend to 'fall off the wagon' in terms of practicing good skin care," said Dr. Fried. "They may not use their sunscreen or their skin care products when they're feeling stressed, because all of their energy and focus is being diverted by their ongoing stress. They also might not be eating or sleeping as well or staying hydrated, which all can contribute to a dull or lack-luster appearance."


With accurate diagnoses by a dermatologist, effective treatments improve the appearance and function of the skin. This alone can substantially reduce patients' stress and improve their skin, hair and nail conditions. However, Dr. Fried noted that if stress is clearly interfering with patients' overall well-being and ability to cope, simultaneous stress management interventions are warranted. In some instances, referral to a mental health professional who has an interest and understanding of skin problems may be warranted.


Cosmetic Interventions


While skin rejuvenation procedures have been shown to significantly improve a person's outward appearance, studies suggest these types of cosmetic interventions also can have positive effects on how people feel and how they function.


"When people feel more attractive and more confident in their appearance, they tend to perform better in other areas of their lives in their work, family life, social life, and marriage or personal relationships," explained Dr. Fried. "Under the right circumstances, cosmetic procedures can be a powerful ally. But it's important for patients to understand that these procedures are not a panacea. Realistic expectations are the key to effectively delivered promises."


Currently, Dr. Fried is analyzing data from a 2008 study designed to measure the positive ripple effects of botulinum toxin injections on other aspects of patients' lives. In this study, 76 middle-aged patients were treated with one botulinum toxin injection and then asked to complete a questionnaire during their follow-up visit to gauge how they felt following the procedure.


"The results of our study clearly showed that patients treated with botulinum toxin experienced substantial benefits," said Dr. Fried. "In fact, 29 percent reported feeling less anxious, 36 percent said they feel more relaxed, and 49 percent were more optimistic. Even a portion of patients diagnosed with seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, prior to treatment reported they felt less sadness during the winter following botulinum toxin injection."


A previous study conducted by Dr. Fried evaluated the clinical and psychological effects of the use of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) in 32 patients. After 12 weeks, patients demonstrated significant improvements in facial skin tone and fine wrinkling, and reported satisfaction with their physical appearance and the quality of their interpersonal relationships.


"The results of these two studies echo observations of recognized experts from around the world that cosmetic interventions can improve a patient's self-image and help them feel better about themselves," added Dr. Fried. "Feeling stressed, depressed or anxious is exhausting, and patients who report improvements in these negative feelings following a cosmetic procedure can use that redirected energy to pursue new interests that can enhance their lives."


For proper diagnosis and treatment of any skin, hair or nail conditions, Dr. Fried advised patients to consult their dermatologist to determine the root of the problem and discuss the potential benefits of any treatment.


Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 15,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails.


American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)

930 E Woodfield Rd.

Schaumburg

IL 60173-4927

United States

aad

Singapore Scientist Says Novel Discovery Suggests New Approach For Age-Defying, Anti-Wrinkling Treatments

In the new print issue of Nature Genetics, scientists in Singapore and Germany report that mutations in the PYCR1 gene cause the rare genetic condition that results in premature skin aging and that is known as "wrinkly skin syndrome."



Their findings not only suggest that increasing levels of the PYCR1 protein could reverse conditions that cause fast aging and wrinkly skin but also provide insight into how some unexpected genes help maintain youthful skin.



Bruno Reversade, Ph.D. of Singapore's Institute of Medical Biology (IMB) led the international research team that involved collaborations with over 15 hospitals and research centres in 13 countries.



Using bioinformatics tools, Dr. Reversade and his team analyzed DNA samples collected worldwide from patients who, at a young age, displayed signs of premature aging. They identified the PYCR1 gene on chromosome 17 of these patients to be defective and found specific mutations in the gene that led to conditions often seen in elderly people, such as loose skin, loss of bone density, hip dislocation and cataract.



They also determined that skin and bone were the two tissues most severely affected in patients with wrinkly skin syndrome. Since skin and bone contain high levels of the PYCR1 protein under normal circumstances, developing therapies that could increase the activity of the PYCR1 protein could possibly reverse the process of aging in affected individuals or slow it down in normal people.



The scientists found that the PYCR1 protein is located in mitochondria, the cell's "power house," providing energy for the cell's consumption. In their experiments, they observed changes in mitochondrial morphology and cell death in the connective tissues of individuals with PYCR1 mutations.



To determine the effects of reduced levels of PYCR1 protein, the scientists studied the growth of frog and fish models in which the PYCR1 gene had been experimentally shut off. They found that the mitochondrial function in the animal models' skin was altered, and there was also an increased occurrence of cell death.



"Our findings confirm the significance of mitochondrial function in the aging process," said Dr. Reversade. "They also unexpectedly highlight the importance of metabolism as PYCR1 is important in the synthesis of proline, a common amino acid involved in metabolism. Age-defying and anti-wrinkling treatments for common disorders related to ageing may also benefit from sustaining proline metabolism."



"We are excited by these findings of Bruno and colleagues, which open up new possibilities in the field of aging and skin research," added Birgit Lane, Ph.D., a skin biologist and Executive Director of IMB, one of the research institutes sponsored by Singapore's A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research).



"The study is a great example of scientific synergy - when clinicians and scientists from around the world come together to share their specialist skills and knowledge, they can discover new insights into complex medical conditions," said Dr. Lane. "Rare genetic disorders often provide surprising revelations. Pooling resources and targeting research to find new ways of combating disease - and benefiting people faster - is exactly what we try to do at IMB."



Dr. Reversade, a developmental biologist, holds a Principal Investigator position at IMB and an adjunct faculty position at the National University of Singapore. In previously published papers in such journals as Cell and Nature Cell Biology, he has reported several landmark discoveries explaining how identical twins can be produced from a single embryo.



Fellow of the Branco Weiss Foundation, he is the first recipient of an A*STAR Investigatorship, a programme that provides competitive and prestigious fellowships to support the next generation of international scientific leaders, offering them funding support for set-up costs and research staff, and access to state-of-the-art scientific equipment and facilities at A*STAR.

Cream Makes Skin Produce Sunless Tan

A cream which has been shown to trigger the skin to produce a tan without direct exposure to sunlight has been developed by scientists at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Children's Hospital Boston, USA. Studies on genetically engineered, fair-skinned, red-haired mice, were successful.


You can read about this experiment in the journal Nature.


The mice were genetically engineered to have a disorder called xeroderma pigmentosum, their skin behaves in a similar way to skin of fair-skinned and/or red-haired people who do not tan, but burn when exposed to UV radiation (sunlight). The cells in their skin can't repair DNA damage caused by radiation.


The cream makes the skin behave as if it were hit by the sun's ultraviolet light. Fair-skinned people, as well as people with red hair, do not tan properly. They have a MC1R defect, a receptor which when triggered produces pigmentation. This defect means lower production of cAMP, a chemical which stimulates the melanocytes to produce pigmentation. In simple terms, this means that these people do not tan - they burn when exposed to sunlight. Many people with this rare genetic disorder have to stay in indoors while the sun is shining.


The more your skin is burned when exposed to sunlight the higher your chances are of developing skin cancer.


The scientists applied a cream, which contained Forskolin, a chemical from the Forskohli plant, a tropical mint plant from India, to the skin of the mice. Forskolin is known to raise cAMP levels. The mice's skin got darker as a result - they developed a tan. The scientists found that the tan looked virtually identical to the tan achieved from exposure to the sun.


If human skin reacts in the same way to this cream, it will mean that fair-skinned and/or red haired people can be triggered to produce the same pigmentation.


Apart from developing a sunless sun tan, the cream also seems to protect the skin better from exposure to UV light, meaning better protection from skin cancer.


Whether or not this cream can benefit humans in the same way as the genetically-engineered mice remains to be seen. Human skin is much thicker than the skin of mice. The cream needs to penetrate deeply enough to trigger the production of pigments.


Dr David Fisher, team leader, said "These studies suggest that a drug-induced rescue of the tanning mechanism may correspondingly rescue at least some aspect of skin cancer protection. Such sunless tanning may also dissuade sun-seeking behaviours, which undoubtedly contribute significantly to high skin cancer incidence."


Topical drug rescue strategy and skin protection based on the role of Mc1r in UV-induced tanning

John A. D'Orazio, Tetsuji Nobuhisa, Rutao Cui, Michelle Arya, Malinda Spry, Kazumasa Wakamatsu, Vivien Igras, Takahiro Kunisada, Scott R. Granter, Emi K. Nishimura, Shosuke Ito, David E. Fisher

Nature 443, 340 - 344 (21 Sep 2006)

-- Click here to see article (must be subscriber)

-- Click here to see Nature's news article on this

Bradley Pharmaceuticals Skin Cancer Screening Tour Encourages Visits To Dermatologists

Bradley
Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NYSE: BDY) is encouraging everyone to visit their
dermatologist for skin cancer screening as the summer season begins.
Bradley's Doak Dermatologics subsidiary, in partnership with The Skin
Cancer Foundation, established The Skin Cancer Screening Tour last year and
has been providing complimentary screenings for the general public
throughout the country. Almost 7,000 individuals were screened since the
Tour started in March 2006.



The Tour stops at cities throughout the U.S. where local,
board-certified dermatologists perform free skin cancer evaluations in a
38-foot Mobile Diagnosis Vehicle (MDv) that was designed and built by Doak
Dermatologics. The Tour actively promotes skin cancer awareness and reminds
the general public about the importance of visiting their dermatologist for
early detection and treatment of skin cancers. Skin cancer is often curable
if diagnosed and treated early enough.



Since last year, the Tour visited 47 cities and identified more than
2,000 individuals as requiring further medical attention for a precancerous
or cancerous condition. Over 1,400 individuals were identified with actinic
keratosis, the most common type of precancerous skin lesion that affects
1.3 million people annually. Physicians also detected 165 individuals with
squamous cell carcinoma, a fast growing form of skin cancer that affects
200,000 people each year, and 538 individuals with basal cell carcinoma,
which affects more than 800,000 annually. Melanoma, the most serious form
of skin cancer, was detected in 59 individuals.



According to the American Cancer Society, more than one million new
cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed in the United States this year and
one in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer during their
lifetime. Invasive melanoma is the sixth most common cancer in men and
women and the second most common cancer in women aged 20-29 years old.



"We are extremely proud of how successful the Tour is, and are thankful
to all the physicians who provided complimentary skin cancer screenings to
thousands of individuals. Also, we raised considerable public awareness
about the need to visit a dermatologist for early skin cancer detection,"
stated Daniel Glassman, President and CEO of Bradley Pharmaceuticals.
"Since more than one million people will be diagnosed with skin cancer this
year, annual screening is an important part of a complete health regimen.
As the summer begins, more individuals will engage in outdoor activities
and be exposed to sunlight. We encourage everyone to visit their
dermatologist and be screened this year."



To learn more about The Skin Cancer Screening Tour and find a list of
upcoming events, please visit skincancerscreeningtour, or the
Bradley Pharmaceuticals website at: bradpharm.
















Bradley Pharmaceuticals common stock is listed on the NYSE under BDY.



Bradley Pharmaceuticals, Inc. was founded in 1985 as a specialty
pharmaceutical company and markets to niche physician specialties in the
U.S. and international markets. Bradley's success is based upon its core
strengths in marketing and sales which enables the company to Commercialize
brands that fill unmet patient and physician needs; Develop new products
through life cycle management; and In-License phase II and phase III drugs
with long-term intellectual property protection that upon approval leverage
Bradley's marketing and sales expertise to increase shareholder value.
Bradley Pharmaceuticals is comprised of Doak Dermatologics, specializing in
therapies for dermatology and podiatry; Kenwood Therapeutics, providing
gastroenterology, OB/GYN, respiratory and other internal medicine brands;
and A. Aarons, which markets authorized generic versions of Doak and
Kenwood therapies.



Important announcements:



Bradley Pharmaceuticals will present at the Banc of America Securities
Health Care Conference 2007, to be held at The Four Seasons Hotel in Las
Vegas, Nevada, May 30, 2007.



Bradley Pharmaceuticals will present at the FTN Midwest Securities
Health Care Conference 2007, to be held at the Four Seasons Hotel in New
York, NY, June 5, 2007.



Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking Statements



This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning
of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking
statements include statements that address activities, events or
developments that Bradley expects, believes or anticipates will or may
occur in the future. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous
risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Bradley's control. Actual
results may differ materially from those projected. These risks and
uncertainties include those described from time to time in Bradley's SEC
filings, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K and its most recent
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Except as required by law, Bradley
undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement
in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future
events or otherwise.


Bradley Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

bradpharm

Revolutionary Genetic Test Guides Doctors To Quicker And More Effective Acne Treatment

As teens and twenty-somethings returned to school this month, many obsessed about their appearance, especially those with moderate to severe acne. A new screening test might save the day.


Released today by genetic dermatology research and development innovator DermaGenoma, Inc., the AcneDX Genetic Test for Antibiotic Response, (suggested price of $300 U.S.), helps guide doctors to assess the antibiotic susceptibility of the bacteria, propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), involved in the pathogenesis of acne. Using the test, a doctor may be able to improve the acne in a quicker and safer manner.


The test will be available thru dermatologists nationwide. The first practice carrying it is Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, with 43 offices in Florida and Ohio.


"Advanced Dermatology and Ameriderm, the country's largest provider of dermatology care, is pleased to partner with DermaGenoma on this important scientific advance," says Dr. Matt L. Leavitt, D.O., Founder and Medical Director of Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. "This test will help our acne patients achieve success more effectively and quicker in their battle against acne."


While dermatologists often prescribe antibiotic treatment for acne, moderate to severe acne requires several months of therapy prior to improvement. Unfortunately patients often observe little or no visual improvement due to the drug resistance of the acne bacteria, propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). The AcneDX Genetic Test for Antibiotic Response may help find the right treatment. It is most appropriate for patients who plan to undergo systemic antibiotic therapy for their acne.


"Prolonged use of systemic antibiotics promotes bacterial resistance throughout a patient's bacterial flora. This decreases the effectiveness of these antibiotics for future infections," says Dr. Alan Shalita, Chairman of the Department of Dermatology at SUNY Downstate. "Selecting and using the most effective treatment for acne can improve the outcome and reduce the psychosocial impact on patients."


"The AcneDX Genetic Test will enable dermatologists to minimize prolonged use of antibiotics that are not effective for an individual's acne, but may be beneficial for future bacterial infections," says DermaGenoma CEO Andy Goren.


The AcneDX Genetic Test for Antibiotic Response provides information on the presence of specific variations in the propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria genes.


- A patient who tests positive for the P. acnes bacteria gene variants has up to approximately 80%* chance of antibiotic treatment failure.

- A patient who tests negative for the P. acnes bacteria gene variants has up to approximately 75%* chance of antibiotic treatment success.


Individuals who test positive for the P. acnes bacteria gene variants should be advised that they are at a high risk for antibiotic treatment failure. These individuals may wish to consult with a dermatologist who can develop a more effective treatment plan for their acne.


* The predictive value of the AcneDX Test is dependent on the genetic variation and antibiotic agent used; therefore, individual results may be substantially less then 75%.

Model For New Generation Of Blood Vessels Challenged

In-growth and new generation of blood vessels, which must take place if a wound is to heal or a tumor is to grow, have been thought to occur through a branching and further growth of a vessel against a chemical gradient of growth factors. Now a research team at Uppsala University and its University Hospital has shown that mechanical forces are considerably more important than was previously thought. The findings, published today in the journal Nature Medicine, open up a new field for developing treatments.



New generation of blood vessels takes place in normal physiological processes, such as when a wound heals, children grow, or the mucous membrane of the womb is built up to be able to receive a fertilized egg. It is also a crucial mechanism in tumor diseases, rheumatism, and certain eye disorders, for example.



How new generation and in-growth of blood vessels takes place has not been fully understood. It has been assumed that the mechanisms are the same as those that occur in embryonic development, which is probably a great over-simplification. The formation of the vascular system in the fetus takes place in a well-organized and reproducible way, which means that we all have blood vessel systems that look very much the same. On the other hand, new generation of vessels in wound healing and tumor growth, for example, occurs in a chaotic environment where it is difficult to see that there would be well-defined gradients of growth factors, and it has not been possible to find evidence of any.



"Unlike these previous models, our findings show that in wound healing, in-growth of new blood vessels takes place via mechanical forces that pull already existing blood vessels into the wound when it heals," says P?¤r Gerwins, who directed the study and is a physician and interventional radiologist at Uppsala University Hospital as well as a researcher with the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology at Uppsala University.



It has long been known that specialized connecting tissue cells, so-called myofibroblasts, wander in and pull the wound together. In the study being published it is shown that this wound contraction governs the in-growth of new blood vessels. Since it is a matter, at least initially, of the expansion of already existent blood vessels that have continuous blood circulation, there is a rapid in-growth of fully functional vessels, which is what we see when a wound heals.



The study not only explains a fundamental biological mechanism but also provides clues for new therapeutic goals in treating various diseases. Since myofibroblasts exist in relatively large numbers in tumors and rheumatic joints, one potential strategy to try to block the contractive capacity of these connective tissue cells. The new model can also partially explain why treatment of tumor diseases with blood-vessel inhibiting substances has not been as successful as was hoped.



Finally, the model can partially explain the mechanism behind the positive effect of "vacuum-assisted wound closure," (VAC). This is a method of treatment for hard-to-heal wounds where an air-tight bandage is applied and then the pressure is reduced in the wound with the aid of suction, which creates a continuous mechanical pull in the underlying tissue. Blood-vessel-rich wound-healing tissue is thereby generated much more rapidly, which substantially hastens healing. It is hoped that it will now be possible to understand why some wounds do not heal and also to develop new types of wound treatment.

Phosphagenics Initiates U.S. Clinical Trials For Its Topical Retinoic Acid

Phosphagenics
Limited ("Phosphagenics") (ASX: POH; AIM: PSG; OTCQX: PPGNY)
announced the initiation of a human clinical trial for its lead
dermatological product, retinoic acid, a form of vitamin A. This trial
represents the Company's first clinical trial to take place in the U.S. and
denotes the commencement of the Company's planned expansion into targeted,
non-systemic delivery of drugs.



This trial follows a number of pre-clinical studies that demonstrated
both an increase in dermal absorption of retinoic acid when formulated with
Phosphagenics' proprietary drug delivery platform (TPM), and a significant
reduction in irritation scores. The clinical trial is a double blinded
study that will involve 90 subjects and is being conducted at Broomall,
PA-based cyberDERM Inc., a contract research organization focused on
developing and refining innovative bio-instrumental and computerized
methods for non-invasive analysis of skin structure, its functions and
effects of topical treatments. This trial is expected to be completed by
the end of the second quarter, 2008.



According to the American Journal of Dermatology, retinoic acid is
prescribed most often as the topical treatment of choice for acne. However,
it is poorly soluble, is associated with irritation and dryness of the skin
and, in some cases, can cause liver damage when substantial amounts enter
the systemic circulation. Irritation, though, is the most common adverse
effect and is observed in approximately 90% of users. Additionally,
according to The American Dermatological Association Inc., half of the
patients who end their retinoic acid treatment cycle prematurely do so
because of irritation. Consequently, practitioners are often reluctant to
prescribe retinoic acid in large quantities and, typically, marketed
formulations contain between only 0.025% and 0.1% of the active, which
often serves to dilute the effectiveness of retinoic acid. Despite this,
the U.S. market for topical prescription retinoids, such as retinoic acid,
for acne treatment exceeds US$300 million annually.



"A new formulation with the ability to deliver greater absorption of
retinoic acid, reduce irritation and dryness and limit systemic circulation
would significantly increase practitioners' flexibility in prescribing the
product," said Harry Rosen, President & CEO of Phosphagenics. "It would
enable physicians to prescribe greater doses of retinoic acid and/or
maintain current dosing while achieving improved efficacy and substantially
limiting adverse effects. Such a product would have the potential to expand
the current market, and would likely capture a significant proportion of
the existing market.



"In our previously completed pre-clinical studies, we were able to
consistently demonstrate an increase in retinoic acid delivered, a
reduction in irritation scores, as well as limit the delivery of retinoic
acid into the systemic circulation, which is important because of its side
effects. Our objective is to replicate these results in our human trial and
deliver a safer, more effective acne treatment to consumers as quickly as
possible."
















In addition to retinoic acid, Phosphagenics is developing a number of
other product candidates utilizing its targeted, non-systemic delivery
technology, including multiple anti-inflammatory and analgesic compounds.



About Phosphagenics Limited



Phosphagenics is a Melbourne-based, globally driven biotechnology
company focused on the discovery of new and cost effective ways to enhance
the bioavailability, activity, safety and delivery of proven pharmaceutical
and nutraceutical products.



Phosphagenics' core technology is built around the science and
application of phosphorylation, a process where the addition of a phosphate
group has been found to enhance the bioavailability, activity and safety of
existing pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals, as well as to assist in the
production of drug delivery platforms.



Phosphagenics' shares are listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (POH)
and the London Stock Exchange's Alternative Investment Market (PSG). An ADR
- Level 1 program was established in the U.S. with The Bank of New York
Mellon (PPGNY) for U.S. investors to trade in Phosphagenics' stock on the
'over-the-counter' market. In July 2007, this was upgraded to the
International OTCQX, a new premium market tier in the U.S. for
international exchange-listed companies, operated by Pink Sheets, LLC.



For more information, please visit Phosphagenics' web site at
phosphagenics



Safe Harbor Statement



This press release contains forward-looking statements based on current
expectations of future events. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate
or unknown risks or uncertainties materialise, actual results could vary
materially from the Phosphagenics' expectations and projections. Risks and
uncertainties include general industry conditions and competition; economic
conditions, such as interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations;
technological advances and patents attained by competitors; challenges
inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory
approvals; domestic and foreign health care reforms and governmental laws
and regulations.


Phosphagenics Limited

phosphagenics

Glucocorticoid Plays Key Role In Skin Abnormalities Induced By Psychological Stress

Inhibiting glucocorticoid, a type of steroid, can prevent skin abnormalities induced by psychological stress, according to a new study from the December issue of the American Journal of Physiology-Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology. The new study also shows how psychological stress induces skin abnormalities that could initiate or worsen skin disorders such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.



The study, "Glucocorticoid blockade reverses psychological stress-induced abnormalities in epidermal structure and function," was carried out by Eung-Ho Choi, Marianne Demerjian, Debra Crumrine, Barbara E. Brown, Theodora Mauro, Peter M. Elias and Kenneth R. Feingold of the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco and the University of California at San Francisco. Choi is also associated with Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea. The American Physiological Society published the study.



Previous research has shown that psychological stress increases glucocorticoid production. In addition, it is well recognized that psychological stress adversely affects many skin disorders, including psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.



"In this study, we showed that the increase in glucocorticoids induced by psychological stress induces abnormalities in skin structure and function, which could exacerbate skin diseases," Feingold explained. This provides a link for understanding how psychological stress can adversely affect skin disorders. Blocking the production or action of glucocorticoids prevented the skin abnormalities induced by psychological stress.



Skin protects



The skin is the body's largest organ and plays a crucial role in providing a barrier between the environment and the internal organs. It protects us from harmful microorganisms, ultraviolet light, toxic chemicals, and more. However, its most important function is providing a permeability barrier that prevents us from drying out. We are approximately 65 percent water and we are able to survive and function in dry environments because the skin forms a permeability barrier that prevents the loss of water.



The permeability barrier is located in the outermost layer of the epidermis, the stratum corneum. The stratum corneum is composed of dead cells surrounded by lipid membranes which mediate the permeability barrier. The stratum corneum layer continuously sloughs off, and therefore must be regenerated. The epidermal cells in the lower epidermis are continuously proliferating to provide new cells, which then differentiate, and ultimately die, to form the stratum corneum.



Previous studies have shown that psychological stress disturbs this elegantly balanced system by decreasing epidermal cell proliferation and inhibiting differentiation. Additionally, permeability barrier function is impaired. The researchers hypothesized that the increase in glucocorticoids induced by psychological stress would cause these adverse effects on skin function.
















Study with hairless mice



They tested their hypothesis by subjecting hairless mice to stress while either blocking the production of glucocorticoids or preventing them from acting on the body. The stress was created by placing the mice in small cages in constant light with a radio playing for 48 hours.



Before placing the mice in the stressful situation, the researchers treated one group of mice with RU 486, a substance that blocks the action of glucocorticoids.



A second group of mice received antalarmin, which blocks glucocorticoid production. A third group was subjected to the stress but received neither antalarmin nor RU 486. The fourth group, the control group, remained unstressed in ordinary cages and without the continuous light and sound to which the other groups were exposed.



Results confirm hypothesis



The stressed mice that received RU 486 and antalarmin showed significantly better skin function compared to the stressed mice that did not receive either treatment. The treated mice showed significantly better:



*
proliferation



* differentiation



* permeability barrier function



* stratum corneum integrity



The experiment demonstrated the important role that glucocorticoids play in inducing the skin abnormalities brought on by psychological stress. While the researchers hope the study will lead to a way to treat people who suffer these skin conditions, there is still a long way to go: First, the research was done with mice, not people. Second, there may be serious side effects of modulating glucocorticoid activity. Glucocorticoids are essential hormones that play many important roles. Blocking the action of glucocorticoids could have negative outcomes that are much worse than exacerbations in the skin disorders.



The research team is now looking at the effect of psychological stress on the skin's production of antimicrobial peptides, which play a role in defense against infection. They hypothesize that psychological stress might also reduce the ability of the skin to protect from infections.







Funding



The National Institutes of Health and the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center San Francisco funded the study.



The American Physiological Society was founded in 1887 to foster basic and applied bioscience. The Bethesda, Maryland-based society has 10,500 members and publishes 14 peer-reviewed journals containing almost 4,000 articles annually.



APS provides a wide range of research, educational and career support and programming to further the contributions of physiology to understanding the mechanisms of diseased and healthy states. In 2004, APS received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring.



Contact: Christine Guilfoy


American Physiological Society

Excaliard Initiates Phase 2 Trials In U.S. For Its Skin Scarring Drug, EXC 001

Excaliard Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced the initiation of three proof of concept Phase 2 trials of EXC 001, an antisense medicine that reduces fibrosis, for the amelioration of skin scarring and other fibrotic disorders. The U.S. multicenter trials will test the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of EXC 001 in two different models to evaluate the improvement of the appearance of scars in subjects undergoing elective abdominoplasty surgery and revision of scars associated with prior breast surgery.


"The prevention and treatment of unsatisfactory skin scarring remains an important unmet medical need," said Lincoln Krochmal, MD, CEO & President of Excaliard Pharmaceuticals. "Unsatisfactory skin scarring can be associated with various dermatologic conditions such as hypertrophic scars and keloids, elective and reconstructive surgery, traumatic wounds, Caesarian sections and burns. We are delighted with our Phase 1 study results indicating EXC 001 delivered locally has a very impressive safety profile. We look forward to further evaluating the safety and efficacy of our novel therapeutic in Phase 2 trials for conditions in which the amelioration of scarring post-operatively would be highly desirable by the patient."


"EXC 001 is a second generation antisense medicine that inhibits fibrosis. In a variety of animal models of scar formation, EXC 001 has demonstrated significant and reproducible reductions in skin scar formation," said Nicholas Dean, PhD., Founder and Chief Scientific Officer. "EXC 001 is an exciting and novel approach to reducing skin scarring, and represents the first time an antisense medicine has been used for this significant, unmet medical need."


About Excaliard Pharmaceuticals


Excaliard Pharmaceuticals, Inc., is a venture capital-funded biotechnology company founded in 2007 focused on the development and commercialization of novel and innovative drugs for the amelioration of skin scarring and other fibrotic disorders. EXC 001 was co-discovered by Isis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: ISIS) and Excaliard, and licensed to Excaliard Pharmaceuticals.

Gene responsible for severe congenital skin disease, Harlequin Ichthyosis, identified by Queen Mary team

The genetic cause of the devastating skin disease Harlequin Ichthyosis has been discovered by a team at Barts and the
London, Queen Mary's School of Medicine and Dentistry.


In a paper to be published online in April in the American Journal of Human Genetics, Professor David Kelsell, of Queen
Mary's Centre for Cutaneous Research, outlines the recent breakthrough.


Harlequin Ichthyosis (HI) is a rare, life threatening condition, where babies are born covered in a thick 'coat of armour'.
The skin dries out to form hard diamond shaped plaques, severely restricting their movement.


Historically, these babies usually die within two days of birth, due to feeding problems, bacterial infection and/or
respiratory diseases. But a number of patients now survive, thanks to the wider availability of neonatal care, and
developments in treatment.


Prof Kelsell said: "The search for the genetic cause of HI has taken more than seven years, with groups in the UK, Japan and
US finding the classical linkage analysis techniques unsuccessful. This is largely down to the lethal nature of the condition
and the small size of families with the condition. Our breakthrough came from applying SNP array technology."


The relatively new SNP or 'Snip' array technology has made searching for disease genes a much quicker and cheaper process -
one which enabled Kelsell and his team to identify the HI gene in a matter of weeks.


SNPs, or single nucleotide polymorphisms, are common but minute variations in the DNA sequence; they occur when just one of
the four letters that make up the code swaps places. Each array is the size of a fingernail, and contains over 10,000 of
these different SNPs. Identifying an SNP which is consistently inherited with a disease can help point researchers to the
'linked' gene that may be ultimately responsible for the condition.


Professor Kelsell's team looked at individuals from twelve families who are affected with HI; three from the USA; seven from
the UK and two from Italy - all from diverse ethnic backgrounds. Using SNP array technology, they were able to pinpoint the
area of code responsible for HI, and discovered mutations in the ABCA12 gene that maps in this area, in 11 of the 12 patients
studied.


Harlequin Ichthyosis affects a number of families in the UK; four children affected by HI, and Professor Kelsell's discovery,
will be the subject of an ITV documentary; Real Lives: the Harlequin Sisters, to be broadcast later this year.


HI is thought to be caused by a defect in the way lipids (fats) are transported and discharged into the top layers of the
skin. Normally, tiny spherical grains called lamellar granules migrate upwards through the skin, depositing lipids into the
intercellular spaces of the skin's uppermost layer. These lipids act as a protective barrier against bacteria and infection.



In patients with HI, these lamellar granules are formed abnormally; the ABCA12 gene may play a critical role in their
formation, explaining the defects in the epidermal barrier seen in this disorder.















Until now, pre-natal screening tests for HI were often unreliable and inconclusive, involving risky, invasive procedures such
as foetal skin biopsies. Professor Kelsell added: "By identifying ABCA12, our team has provided the molecular clue towards
understanding the numerous biological abnormalities seen in HI skin, and established the means for early prenatal DNA
diagnosis of HI." The team's next step will be to investigate the role of ABCA12 in the skin with financial support from BDF:
Newlife.


David Kelsell is Professor of Human Molecular Genetics at the Centre for Cutaneous Research, Institute of Cell and Molecular
Science, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London.


The work was carried out with Dr Edel O'Toole, also from the Centre for Cutaneous Research; Dr Charles Mein from the Genome
Centre; and Professor Bryan Young from the Molecular Oncology Unit.


Funding came from the Wellcome Trust, the Odland Endowed Research Fund and the Barts and the London Charitable Foundation.



The Centre for Cutaneous Research


In addition to providing a significant clinical service for both general and specialist dermatology, and teaching core
curriculum in undergraduate studies, the Centre for Cutaneous Research is a research leader in Europe. The focus of research
is cellular and molecular biology of human skin, and associated diseases. External funding of around 1.5million is obtained
yearly. smd.qmul.ac.uk/cutaneous/index.htm


The Genome Centre at Barts and the London


The Genome Centre at Barts and the London opened in 2001 with initial funding from the Special Trustees of St Bartholomew's
and reflects the commitment of Queen Mary to genetic and genomic research. We facilitate a number of genetics and genomics
projects within the College and currently seeking collaborations with a wider research community.
mds.qmul.ac.uk/gc


Queen Mary, University of London


Queen Mary is the fourth largest of the Colleges of the University of London. Its roots lie in four historic colleges: Queen
Mary College, Westfield College, St Bartholomew's Hospital Medical College and the London Hospital Medical College. Pooling
strengths, expertise and resources, Queen Mary is now fully integrated.


The College currently has over 10,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students, with an academic and support staff of around
2,600. It is organised into the four faculties of Arts; Engineering and Mathematical Sciences; Law and Social Sciences; and
Natural Sciences, and Barts and The London, Queen Mary's School of Medicine and Dentistry. It is a research university, with
over 80 per cent of research staff working in departments where research is of international or national excellence (RAE
2001). It has a strong international reputation, with over 20 per cent of students coming from over 100 countries.


Real Lives : The Harlequin Sisters, forthcoming ITV documentary


About the BDF


BDF Newlife is the UK's leading child health and research charity.



The
American Journal of Human Genetics


SOURCE:
alphagalileo

Survey Of Beachgoers' Tanning Habits Should Help Interventions To Prevent Skin Cancer

A study published in the November issue of Archives of
Dermatology seeks to determine which beachgoers would benefit
from targeted interventions to reduce skin cancer risk by identifying
sun-protection practices and risk profiles.



In the past 30 years, the Unites States has seen a rapid increase in
the incidence of skin cancer and death due to outdoor exposure to
ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Experts have been instructing people to
engage in practices that reduce the risk of skin cancer such as
limiting time
spent in the sun, using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing.
Author David L. O'Riordan, Ph.D. (University of Queensland, Brisbane,
Australia) and colleagues write that, "Adults and adolescents
are particularly at risk for intense, episodic
sun exposure while on vacation or in 'high-risk' environments such as
beaches."



Studying the relationship between levels of UVR exposure and sun
protection behavior of vacationers, O'Riordan and colleagues conducted
a study at a popular beach in Honolulu,
Hawaii. Between February and March 2004, 88
participants completed two surveys: a sun habits survey before entering
the beach, and an exit survey upon leaving the beach that asked about
sun protection
practices while at the beach. The researchers also tracked UVR levels
every day.



Spending about three hours at the beach, on average, participants were
exposed to levels of UVR
equal to five times the amount required to burn unprotected
fair-skinned people. The researchers also note that 70% of the
participants intended to tan at the beach even though 40% reported
having had a sunburn in the last 2 days. Nearly 23% of
participants indicated that they had been to a tanning salon in the
past 30 days.



O'Riordan and colleagues defined three distinct groups of people based
on sun protection behaviors:


Class 1 consisted of unconcerned and lower risk
individuals. They used the least amount of sunscreen and shade and a
small amount of clothing. The group came to the beach with the
intention of tanning and had the fewest members with a high risk of
skin cancer.
Class 2 consisted of tan seekers, but ones who sunburn
easily. This group used the most sunscreen coverage
and the least clothing coverage. They also reported the most tanning
salon use.
Class 3 consisted of those who were concerned about UVR and
took precautionary measures. This group had the most clothing coverage
and shade use, as well as the smallest proportion of people who
intended to tan.



"Findings from
this study indicate that the beach is an ideal setting to initiate a
program aimed at promoting sun-safe practices while enjoying the many
activities that a day at the beach has to offer," write the authors.
"Collaborative efforts
with key stakeholders such as local government, the tourist industry,
local business and community representatives should examine a broad
range of strategies - not just targeting individual behavior change,
but
also the environment - to promote the reduction of intense UVR
exposures
among beachgoers."



The researchers conclude that: "Specific strategies
should target the subsets of the beach-going population (particularly
those in group 2 - the tan seekers) that intend to tan and sunburn
repeatedly, taking into account their relevant personal attributes and
behavior patterns. A balance should be provided between messages that
focus on the immediate detrimental effects (photoaging, soreness) as
well as the long-term detrimental health effects (skin cancer) of
excessive UVR exposure, all the time balancing the health interests of
the public with the needs of local industry."



Sherry L.
Pagoto, Ph.D., and Joel Hillhouse, Ph.D. (University of
Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Mass.) write in an
accompanying editorial that this taxonomy of tanning subtypes should
improve our
ability to choose appropriate health interventions. They write:



"The advantages of the development of a tanning
typology will not be fully realized until brief assessments that can
accurately classify patients are developed and empirically verified. We
believe that the latent class analysis used by O'Riordan et al to
identify and define their subtypes is an important step in this
process. Such assessments, together with messages tailored to each
subtype, will give clinicians a way to identify those patients in
greatest need as well as the most effective messages to deliver to
specific patients. Given the time constraints of the typical
patient-clinician interaction, such systems may very well maximize the
efficiency of delivering UV safety information. Public health skin
cancer prevention programs may also benefit from the improved accuracy
of risk identification as well as the ability to tailor messages to
various tanning subtypes, perhaps using interactive online intervention
programs."



A Day at the Beach While on Tropical Vacation: Sun Protection
Practices in a High-Risk Setting for UV Radiation Exposure

David L. O'Riordan; Alana D. Steffen; Kevin B. Lunde; Peter
Gies

Archives of Dermatology (2008). 144[11]:
pp. 1449 - 1455.

Click
Here to View Abstract



Written by: Peter M Crosta

The Harley Medical Group Reports An Increase In Bald Patch Treatments

The Harley Medical Group has reported demand from male patients for laser rejuvenation treatments is up +93% over the last quarter, across its 30 clinics.


Laser rejuvenation treatments now account for 11% of all non-surgical treatments carried out during June, July and August at the UK's largest cosmetic surgery group. More unusual requests received this year are for skin regeneration treatments on receding hairlines, including laser treatment and chemical peels to reduce the appearance of aging sun spots.


Laura Marshall, specialist nurse counsellor at The Harley Medical Group, said: "The skin on the scalp is delicate and when not protected by hair or high factor sun cream is prone to burning which can cause dark patches, spots and wrinkles to form. Coming to terms with a receding hairline has always been a challenge for a man, but to then suffer the effects of sun damage on the balding area adds insult to injury. Rejuvenation treatments can help minimise the visible signs of aging skin."


Liz Dale, Director, The Harley Medical Group added: "We're not talking big numbers of bald-patch treatments but the fact we're getting more enquiries does demonstrate how men are taking non-surgical treatments increasingly seriously as a cosmetic solution. With successful, high profile men, like Simon Cowell, openly talking about their cosmetic regimes it's a subject that has become more acceptable for men to tackle."


Jonathan Reed, 35, patient at The Harley Medical Group commented: "My hair started receding when I was in my mid-twenties. Back then I didn't put much thought into whether or not I was wearing sun cream and over the last couple of years I've developed a couple of sun spots on my scalp, as well as wrinkles. I've booked in for a consultation to see what my options are as I am really conscious of how aging the effect is."


Liz Dale concluded: "Before booking in an appointment for any kind of injectable or laser procedure patients should always check with their practitioner that they are a registered healthcare professional."

Foot Injuries Plague Athletes During Fall Sports Season

With the 2008-09 football season still in its fledgling stages, storylines for many teams in the spotlight have evolved from the typical 'who to watch' to 'who's gone down now?' Chris 'Beanie' Wells, starting running back for the Ohio State University Buckeyes, continues to recuperate from a right toe injury suffered almost two weeks ago. National Football League (NFL) running back LaDainian Tomlinson, star of the San Diego Chargers, also limped from his team's opening game with a foot injury recently - which he quickly brushed off as 'turf toe.' But how many athletes in fall sports, like football, take these types of injuries too lightly?



According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), both professional and amateur athletes are at an extremely high risk for injuring their lower limbs during play. Whether performing hairpin turns on artificial turf or taking part in a powerful, high-speed collision with other players, foot and ankle injury risks for athletes run rampant - and participating in a favorite sport should always involve playing it safe.


" Stress fractures of the foot, ankle sprains and ligament injuries are all, unfortunately, quite common in popular fall sports such as football," said Dr. David Davidson, APMA member and podiatric medical consultant for the Buffalo Bills of the NFL. "From maintaining proper conditioning to wearing sport-specific footwear, athletes can function at peak performance much more often when constantly maintaining high levels of footcare safety."


The following are some of the most common acute injuries in fall sports, as well as treatments and preventative tips recommended by the APMA:


- Sprains - Hard sprinting often leads to stretched or torn ligaments, also known as sprains. Severe sprains may also cause ankle swelling, much like a fracture.


Treatment - Sprains that don't show improvement in three days should be seen by a podiatric physician immediately. Possible casting, immobilization and a rehabilitation regimen may all be prescribed.


Tips to Avoid Them - Take part in proper warm-up exercises before and after home workouts, practice and games. Spend five to 10 minutes stretching, holding and relaxing muscles.


- Fractures - Fractures occur when a bone has been broken.


Treatment - Casting, and sometimes even surgery performed by a podiatric surgeon, is required to properly immobilize fractures and set breaks. Ten to 12 weeks are usually required for rehabilitation.


Tips to Avoid Them - Look for sport-specific footwear that contains extra padding in cleated shoes, which helps to prevent stress fractures - incomplete fractures in bones are typically caused by overuse.


- Turf Toe - Named for the playing field on which it is common, turf toe is a painful hyperextension of the big toe joint. While competing on artificial turf is the leading cause of this condition, it can also occur on natural surfaces such as grass.


Treatment - Turf toe treatment usually includes the 'RICE' regimen, which stands for Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.
Tips to Avoid It - Wearing a stiffer shoe can prevent aggravating this injury further. Customized foot orthotics may also be worn during play to protect against turf toe.


For more information about sports-related injuries to the foot and ankle, visit apma/sports.


Founded in 1912, the American Podiatric Medical Association is the nation's leading professional society for foot and ankle specialists. The association has component societies in 53 locations in the U.S. and its territories and a membership of close to 11,500 doctors of podiatric medicine.

American Podiatric Medical Association

NicOx And Ferrer Present Promising Clinical And Preclinical Results In Dermatology

NicOx S.A.
(Eurolist: COX) announced the presentation of promising clinical and
preclinical results from its collaboration with Ferrer Grupo International
at the 21st World Congress of Dermatology, in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
These included phase 1 results for NCX 1022, a prototype compound, showing
the potential for improved safety and tolerability and preclinical results
for a novel, high potency, nitric oxide-donating anti-inflammatory
suggesting it could have enhanced anti-inflammatory activity over current
dermatology products.



Ennio Ongini, Vice President of Research at NicOx, declared: "We are
delighted to present these very promising results with Ferrer at this
prestigious scientific meeting. These results highlight the potential of
our technology in dermatology and suggest our joint program with Ferrer has
the potential to provide more effective drugs to treat chronic skin
disorders, which represent an increasing burden on medical services.
Furthermore, the clinical data on NCX 1022 suggest that nitric oxide
donation may also improve the safety margin over current treatments. We
will continue to work closely with Ferrer to bring our promising drug
candidate into clinical trials."



NicOx and Ferrer initiated their development program focused on high
potency, nitric oxide-donating anti-inflammatory agents, for the treatment
of a range of skin disorders (see NOTE), following encouraging results from
a phase 1 study for NCX 1022, a lower potency prototype (see top-line
results in press release of April 29, 2004). This presentation at the World
Congress of Dermatology was the first time these results were presented at
a scientific meeting. The results showed that the application of NCX 1022
ointment did not induce skin blanching with there being statistically
significantly less skin blanching with NCX 1022 compared with three
commonly used marketed products (p

Restless Leg Syndrome Relief Found In Rotigotine Skin Patch

Patients with restless leg syndrome (RLS) - the irresistible urge to
move one's body to limit uncomfortable or odd sensations - may get some
relief during day and night by using skin patches that contain the drug
rotigotine. The findings come from a randomized, placebo-controlled,
double-blind study published in the July edition of The
Lancet Neurology.



Researchers studying RLS have analyzed the genetic basis of the disease
and determined that it should be treated as a general neurological
disorder. Currently, many patients with this condition are prescribed
dopaminergic drugs that stimulate the body's dopamine system - a first
line of treatment. Rotigotine is a type of dopaminergic drug, and it
has been used to treat Parkinson's disease. To investigate the effects
of transdermal rotigotine patches as treatment of RLS, Dr
Claudia Trenkwalder (Centre of Parkinsonism and Movement Disorders,
Paracelsus-Elena Hospital, Kassel, Germany) and colleagues conducted a
randomized controlled trial.



The researchers analyzed a sample of 458 patients with
moderate-to-sever RLS. Their average baseline score on the
International Restless Leg Syndrome study group severity rating scale
(IRLS) was 28.1, and they had a score of 4 or more on a test to measure
severity of symptoms called the clinical global impressions (CGI) item
1 assessment. Random assignment resulted in 115 patients receiving
transdermal rotigotine 1 mg, 112 patients receiving a 2 mg dose, 114
receiving a 3 mg dose, and 117 receiving placebo. Rotigotine was
delivered via skin patches that were applied one time a day over a 6
month period. The main outcome measures were the changes from baseline
to the end of the treatment period in the IRLS score and in the CGI
item 1 score.



The mean changes in the IRLS group were as follows:


-13.7 in the 1 mg group,
-16.2 in the 2 mg group,
-16.8 in the 3 mg group, and
-8.6 in the placebo group.

The mean changes in the CGI item 1 score were:


-2.09 in the 1 mg group,
-2.41 in the 2 mg group,
-2.55 in the 3 mg group, and
-1.34 in the placebo group.

Three quarters of patients indicated that their rotigotine patches were
"good" or "very good" in a follow-up survey, though 43% of patients
(145 of 341) had (mostly mild or moderate) skin reactions to
rotigotine. Only 2% of participants who received placebo reported skin
reactions. Rotigotine was associated with serious adverse events in 10
patients: one patient had an elevation of liver enzymes, one had a
worsening of tinnitus, one had a non-response to anticoagulation, one
had electrocardiogram changes, and six had reactions at the application
site. Skin reactions at the patch site were not severe enough to
warrant hospital treatment, and shortly after removing the patch, the
issues were resolved. There were no signs of an increase in the
severity of symptoms in RLS during dopaminergic treatment, and the
patients demonstrated a low the rate of typical dopaminergic
side-effects.



"The results of this 6-month trial indicate that transdermal delivery
of low doses of rotigotine for 24 h per day are more effective than
placebo in relieving the symptoms of RLS in patients who are moderately
to severely affected. This trial, together with a pilot study and
dose-finding trial, suggest that, despite differences in treatment
duration and other design features, there exists a clear therapeutic
window in terms of dose of rotigotine to treat restless legs syndrome
between 1 mg over 24 h to 3 mg over 24 h," conclude the authors.



A comment accompanying the research article is written by Dr Kapil
Sethi (Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA, USA). Dr. Sethi notes
that, "The introduction of a patch with a constant delivery of a
dopamine agonist is a welcome addition to the armamentarium.
Unfortunately, the rotigotine patch has been temporarily withdrawn from
the US market because of problems with manufacturing and the unreliable
delivery of the drug.



"RLS causes significant discomfort and adversely affects the quality of
life of patients. Whether it has more ominous consequences is unclear.
A recent study showed that RLS is associated with a greater risk of
cardiovascular disease, particularly in patients with greater frequency
or severity of RLS symptoms. Whether treatment of RLS will reduce this
risk is unknown, and further studies should help answer this question."



Efficacy of rotigotine for treatment of moderate-to-severe
restless legs syndrome: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled
trial

Claudia Trenkwalder, Heike Bene??, Werner Poewe, Wolfgang H Oertel,
Diego Garcia-Borreguero, Al W de Weerd, Luigi Ferini-Strambi, Pasquale
Montagna, Per Odin, Karin Stiasny-Kolster, Birgit H?¶gl, K Ray
Chaudhuri, Markku Partinen, Erwin Schollmayer, Ralf Kohnen, for the
SP790 Study Group

The Lancet Neurology (2008)

DOI:10.1016/S1474-4422(08)70112-1

Click
Here to View Abstract



Written by: Peter M Crosta

Risk To Older Australians Of Sun-Related Skin Cancer Death

A new Western Australian study has revealed the mortality from non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), commonly considered less dangerous than melanoma, is affecting older Australians at a worrying rate.



Researchers at the Western Australian Institute for Medical Research (WAIMR) found West Australians above the age of 69, especially men, accounted for 70 percent of deaths from non-melanoma skin cancer in WA, and most primary cancers occured in areas of high sun exposure.



The study has prompted health experts to urge older people to stay vigilant about sun protection and get regular skin checks.



The Cancer Council WA Director of Education and Research and co-author of the paper, Terry Slevin, said the study's results should act as a strong reminder for older West Australians to check their skin and see their doctor at the first sign of anything suspicious.



"Older people may have become blas?© about NMSC because for the most part they can just be cut out, but as this research shows, NMSC is serious and can be deadly if left untreated," he said.



"It's important people understand that NMSCs are preventable from middle age - it's wrong to think all the damage to our skin is done in childhood and nothing can be done after that to avoid skin cancer."



The research published in the most recent edition of Cancer Causes Control, found 70 percent of deaths from NMSC occurred among people aged 70 years and over. More than 70 per cent of those were men, and in most cases the primary cancer developed on the face, ears, hands or scalp.



"These results should be a stark reminder for older people, especially blokes, that they should be more vigilant in having their skin checked and do something if they notice any changes in their skin," Mr Slevin said.



"The message these findings send us is that it's never too late to prevent skin cancer and regular skin checks are important to catch skin cancers early, before they become a problem."



Each year in Western Australia, it's estimated that around 30,000 non-melanoma skin cancers are removed and there are 37 deaths from these types of cancers.



Author of the paper, WAIMR Associate Professor Lin Fritschi, said the research was the first definitive evidence that deaths from NMSC in Australia was primarily caused by cancer resulting from excessive sun exposure.



"The average age of death caused by NMSC was about 77 years old, and most primary cancers appeared in areas of high sun exposure - for men, the scalp was the primary cancer site in a quarter of these deadly cancer cases," she said.



"These cancers can mostly be prevented by applying the 'slip, slop, slap' rule and early detection.



"There could be a number of reasons why older people are not picking up these cancers early enough such as poor eyesight and less mobility to check their own skin, illness or dementia.



"In light of these findings, skin cancer examinations really need to become a high priority for older people as well as their GPs, nurses and carers."



The research found no deaths recorded from basal cell carcinoma (BCC), one of the most common NMSCs, or solar keratosis. Most deaths were associated with squamous cell carcinoma and Merkel cell carcinoma.

Immune Defect Is Key To Skin Aging

Scientists funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) have discovered why older people may be so vulnerable to cancer and infections in the skin. The team from UCL has shown in human volunteers that defective immunity in the skin is caused by an inability to mobilise essential defences that would otherwise recognise threats and clear them before irreparable damage is done. This discovery could be important for preventing, managing or treating many age-related skin health problems. The study is published in 31 August edition of the Journal of Experimental Medicine.



"Older people are very prone to having infections generally and our studies in the skin of such subjects identifies one reason for this." said Professor Arne Akbar from UCL, who led the study.



He continued: "It's actually incredibly difficult to get to the root of exactly which mechanisms cause the diseases that show up as a factor of old age. We wanted to uncover the workings of skin health in order to see why older people don't deal well with skin infections and are prone to skin cancers also."



It has been known for some time that older people have compromised immunity and therefore defend themselves less well against infection and disease than younger people. In the past, the reduction in skin health was put down to potential defects in the white blood cells called T-cells that would usually help to identify and clear infection. However, when experiments were carried out with healthy young individuals under the age of 40 years and older individuals over the age of 70 years in this study, it was shown that in fact there is nothing wrong with the T-cells in the older group; instead it is the inability of their skin tissue to attract T-cells where and when they are needed that is the source of reduced immunity.



Professor Akbar added: "Knowing this now raises the question of whether the same defect also occurs in other tissues during ageing. Is it possible that, for example, lung tissues also fail to give out the right message to T-cells to bring them into the tissue to do their job? This may explain, in part, the higher rates of lung cancer, chest infections and pneumonia in older people, perhaps.



"We also, obviously, would like to know if it is possible to reverse the skin defect in older people. We've done some experiments that show that, at least in the test tube, it is possible to make older skin express the missing signals that attract T cells. This indicates that, in principle, the defect is entirely reversible. Once we get to the bottom of exactly which part of the signal to T-cells has gone wrong we might then be in a position to intervene to boost skin immunity in older people."



BBSRC Deputy Chief Executive, Steve Visscher said: "We are living longer and longer in the UK, but we need to ensure that a long life is also a healthy one. What Professor Akbar and his team have identified is a normal part of the ageing process that contributes to disease and therefore reduced quality of life in older people. The more knowledge we have about healthy ageing, the better we get at preventing, managing and treating diseases that are simply a factor of an ageing body."

Eczema And Asthma Connection To Be Explored Through $5 Million Grant

A $5 million grant has been awarded to the Indiana University School of Medicine to establish an Asthma and Allergic Diseases Cooperative Research Center (AADCRC). Principal investigator of the center grant is Mark Kaplan, Ph.D., associate professor of pediatrics and director of Pediatric Pulmonary Basic Research in the Division of Pulmonology, Critical Care and Allergy at the IU School of Medicine.


The five-year grant from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease creates one of nine such centers in the U.S. The centers will work in collaboration and their principal investigators make up a steering committee to provide input and serve as a resource for all the AADCRC centers.


"The incidence of allergic diseases is rapidly increasing in the developed world," said Dr. Kaplan. "This is commonly seen as asthma, rhinitis and atopic dermatitis (eczema), alone or in combination. While atopic dermatitis is rarely life threatening, affected individuals suffer both physical and emotional discomfort. Moreover, there is a high correlation between eczema in infants and the development of asthma later in life, a disease that can be far more debilitating."


The researchers' goal is to identify diagnostic biological markers or indicators for these diseases that will help identify which children will be predisposed to developing asthma. "From this, we hope to develop therapies that will help us be better able to treat current conditions and prevent patients from developing severe disease later in life," Dr. Kaplan said.


Research at the AADCRC centers will include both basic and clinical research in immunology and pathobiology, and the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of asthma and allergic diseases. The purpose of creating such centers is to accelerate the application of fundamental knowledge of immune function to the investigation, prevention, and treatment of asthma and allergic diseases.


Members of the center at IU include Dr. Kaplan, Cheong-Hee Chang, Ph.D., associate professor of microbiology and immunology; and, Jeffrey Travers, M.D., Ph.D., chairman of the Department of Dermatology.


The IU team will examine patient samples and animal models of dermatitis to identify the various components of innate and acquired immunity that contribute to the onset, exacerbation and infection of atopic dermatitis lesions.


Their work is supported through other IU School of Medicine resources and includes involvement from Robert Tepper, M.D., Ph.D., the Mary Agnes Kennedy and Katheryn Kennedy Weinberger professor of pediatrics (pulmonology) and Susan Perkins, M.D., associate professor of medicine. Dr. Tepper is the principal investigator of a related grant for research on the risk of asthma in infants with atopic dermatitis. This new award will not only greatly enhance the allergic disease research program at IU, but also aid in recruitment for the growing asthma and allergic diseases research program in the IU Department of Pediatrics and the Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research.


indiana

Mouse Model Of A UV Sensitivity Syndrome Illustrates Skin Stem Cell Dysfunction Is Linked To Cancer Pathology

Cell lifespan is limited by telomeres, DNA sequences that cap chromosomes and control the number of times a cell may be copied. A new study reported in Disease Models & Mechanisms (DMM), dmm.biologists, describes how telomere dysfunction in skin cells can lead to increased skin cancer risk and pigmentation.



Researchers from Spain investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying skin cell telomere dysfunction using a mouse model of Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP), a disease in which patients have increased sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Their studies revealed that these mice have impaired skin cell regeneration, and that limiting the activity of a tumor suppressor signaling protein, p53, restores cell regeneration and reduces hyperpigmentation. Surprisingly, limiting p53 activity also advances the progression of skin cancers.



This study establishes a link between telomere dysfunction, cancer progression and the dysfunction of DNA repair mechanisms in XP patients. Understanding the pathways which control cell regeneration and cancer progression in these patients will not only aid in treatments for XP patients, but can likewise provide clues on how to target and better treat other cases of skin cancer.







The report was written Gerdine J. Stout and Maria A. Blasco at the Spanish National Cancer Research Center in Madrid, Spain. The report is published in the March/April issue of Disease Models & Mechanisms (DMM), a research journal published by


About Disease Models & Mechanisms:



Disease Models & Mechanisms (DMM) is a new research journal publishing both primary scientific research, as well as review articles, editorials, and research highlights. The journal's mission is to provide a forum for clinicians and scientists to discuss basic science and clinical research related to human disease, disease detection and novel therapies. DMM is published by the Company of Biologists, a non-profit organization based in Cambridge, UK. The Company also publishes the international biology research journals Development, Journal of Cell Science, and The Journal of Experimental Biology. In addition to financing these journals, the Company provides grants to scientific societies and supports other activities including travelling fellowships for junior scientists, workshops and conferences. The world's poorest nations receive free and unrestricted access to the Company's journals.