Research Topics & Working Groups
Epidermolysis Bullosa has a wide range of different symptoms and side effects. Our EB House scientists perform basic research on various EB topics to give the “butterfly children” hope for alleviation and healing.
Proteins connect the different skin layers and are therefore responsible for the stability of the skin. In EB patients, these proteins are either formed incorrectly or are entirely absent. This is caused by mutations of the DNA (genetic material), which lead to the formation of missing or functionally-restricted proteins – and the skin of people living with EB tends to blister as a result. It detaches even at low stress, which results in the formation of large open wounds. In the area of chronic wounds, a specific type of skin cancer often develops, which is difficult to detect and particularly challenging to treat in EB patients.
