Patricia Inácio, PhD, science writer —

In children with epidermolysis bullosa (EB) with airway involvement, a new strategy using both cell and gene therapy showed promise in a new study. Specifically, the reintroduction of the LAMA3 gene that codes for part of a protein called laminin 332 restored the ability of cells to form a healthy barrier…

The 7th annual Plunge for Elodie is set to raise $500,000 for epidermolysis bullosa (EB) research, which would bring the total raised by the event to date to more than $2.5 million, the EB Research Partnership (EBRP) said. From March 10 to April 27, supporters will jump into…

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is linked with high care costs, particularly for severe forms of the disease, according to a U.K.-based study. Costs associated with dressings and caregivers were significant contributors, despite many of them being unpaid. The findings “highlight the need for adequate…

The presence of loose joints, or hypermobility, contributes to the impaired walking ability seen in many children with epidermolysis bullosa (EB), a new review study reports. Researchers at a U.K. hospital found that 48 children of 59 referred for physiotherapy had an altered gait pattern, meaning their walking ability…

Abeona Therapeutics is preparing to request U.S. approval of EB-101, a cell therapy candidate for treating recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB). The announcement follows a successful pre-biologics license application (BLA) meeting with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “With the constructive feedback from the FDA now in-hand,…

New study findings show how the complement system C5aR2 protein at the surface of neutrophils, a type of immune cell, may contribute to the progression of the rare autoimmune disease epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA). Mice lacking C5aR2 specifically at the surface of neutrophils had lessened inflammation. “Signaling through C5a receptors induces…

Colitis, an inflammation of the large intestine (colon), may develop in rare cases in people with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB), according to a study of one such case. The patient was successfully treated with mesalamine and the steroid budesonide, but more research is needed to “develop evidence-based guidelines…

InMed Pharmaceuticals has completed enrollment for a Phase 2 trial testing INM-755, an investigational cannabinol cream, for people with epidermolysis bullosa (EB). “We look forward to the data read-out in the summer, so we can evaluate our strategic options and next steps,” Eric A. Adams, InMed’s president and CEO,…

Gold weight implants were safely implanted under the eyelids of a woman with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB), according to a recent report. Despite their limited effectiveness in reducing her difficulties completely closing her eyelids — a condition called lagophthalmos — the “safety and tolerability of the gold weight…

A proof-of-concept trial evaluating the effects of Relief Therapeutics’ antimicrobial wound spray RLF-TD011 — formerly known as APR-TD011 — in people with epidermolysis bullosa (EB) has enrolled its first three patients, the company announced. RLF-TD011 is a highly pure form of hypochlorous acid, a chemical with broad-spectrum…

From sharing images and information on social media, to holding fundraisers to spread the word about epidermolysis bullosa (EB), supporters are set to mark National Epidermolysis Bullosa Awareness Week Oct. 25–31. “National Epidermolysis Bullosa Awareness Week … is a time to increase awareness of EB, to promote the need for a…

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a type of skin cancer well known in people with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB), also affects patients with other EB types, according to data from the Dutch EB registry. “The tumours might be discovered only when they are already large because of their indistinct…