Clinical Research Directory

Oral Lactobacillus Reuteri for Skin Barrier Dysfunction in Obesity

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of oral Lactobacillus reuteri supplementation for treating obesity-induced skin barrier impairment in individuals aged 18-40 with a BMI ≥30. The study focuses on the following questions: Can oral Lactobacillus reuteri supplementation reduce skin barrier damage (measured by transepidermal water loss/TEWL) in obese participants? Does modulation of gut microbiota with Lactobacillus reuteri impact skin barrier function and systemic inflammation? Researchers will compare outcomes across two groups: Intervention Group (Obese): Oral Lactobacillus reuteri capsules. Placebo Control Group (Obese): Oral inactive (heat-killed) Lactobacillus reuteri. Participant Procedures: Take daily oral capsules (Lactobacillus reuteri or inactive strain) for 4 weeks. Undergo non-invasive skin testing (TEWL measurements) at baseline and study completion. Provide stool and samples for analyses. Complete weekly check-ins to report adverse effects (e.g., gastrointestinal discomfort, skin irritation).

A Pilot Study on the Efficacy of 2% Cholesterol Cream in Preventing Transepidermal Water Loss and Clinical Symptoms in Mild to Moderate Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by impaired skin barrier function, leading to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), dry skin, and itching. Restoration of the skin barrier is an important component of treatment. Cholesterol is a key lipid in the stratum corneum that plays a role in maintaining skin barrier integrity. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of 2% cholesterol cream in improving skin barrier function and clinical symptoms in patients with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis aged 7-17 years. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either 2% cholesterol cream or a placebo (cream base), applied twice daily for 12 weeks. Outcomes will include measurements of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin hydration, skin pH, Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA), Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), and pruritus numeric rating scale (NRS). The results of this study may support the use of cholesterol-containing topical formulations as a safe and effective treatment option for atopic dermatitis.