Clinical Research

The Clinical Research Division in the Department of Dermatology conducts ongoing studies of novel therapeutic agents. Established to explore new drugs, devices and therapies, the Clinical Research Division is dedicated to pioneering innovative breakthroughs in the field of dermatology. Housed within the Department of Dermatology, the Clinical Research Division has ample office space and a fully equipped lab dedicated to tissue acquisition and analysis, laser scanning confocal microscopy, and more.

Considering a grant submission? Complete the Intent to Submit Form. This form is used to identify and allocate resources for grant development. It is the first step in planning for the production of high quality, competitive grant applications. This form is used to identify and allocate resources for grant development.

CITI Training is required for all students and residents who are involved in research studies related to human subjects in the Department of Dermatology.  The online modules are required prior to a student or resident being added to a research study since the training date must be provided to the IRB. First-time users will need to create an account. After registration, choose the biomedical research group; all modules must be completed.  Please send a copy of your completion certificate to Josh Hill.

Current Studies

Atopic Dermatitis / Eczema

Dermatomyositis

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Dermatomyositis

Study Title: A Phase 3, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study to Investigate the Efficacy and Safety of Oral Brepocitinib in Adults with Dermatomyositis

We are conducting a research study on individuals with dermatomyositis. The purpose of this research study is to learn more about the safety and effectiveness of an investigational drug called brepocitinib. This study will compare the investigational drug to a placebo (inactive substance) to see how well the investigational drug works.

Participant requirements:

  •  Male and/or Female 18-75 years of age
  • Confirmation of dermatomyositis diagnosis
  • Attend 13 visits over 56 weeks
  • Other requirements, which the study team will review with you

This study is being conducted by Dr. David Pearson in the University Of Minnesota Department Of Dermatology. For additional information, please visit the study page on ClinicalTrials.gov https://clinicaltrials.gov (in progress w sponsor)

Alternatively, contact the study coordinator: 612-624-5721 or wall0396@umn.edu

Hair Diseases / Alopecia

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Alopecia Areata

Study Title: “Mechanism of Immune Modulation by DPCP in Alopecia Areata."

We are recruiting adult participants for a clinical trial. This research involves topical application of the immunomodulatory DPCP to the scalp, as well as the removal of small (4mm) scalp skin biopsy samples.

The study length is approximately 5 months with forty-two visits to the study site.

In 5 months of the study, study participants would have twice weekly visits for scalp and hair examinations and application of the study drug. Scalp biopsies and blood draws would occur at weeks 2, 5, 18 or when hair regrowth is achieved. There is the possibility of optional scalp biopsies at additional time points.

To participate you should:
• be 18 -75 years of age
• have a diagnosis of patchy alopecia areata with 76-99% hair loss

There is no compensation for participating, but volunteers will receive treatment at no charge.

To learn more about the study and to see if you qualify, please call 612-625-7865 or email derm@umn.edu.

Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia Questionnaire Study

Study Title: “A Research Study to Evaluate Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia – Clinical Portion”

We are recruiting patients with frontal fibrosing alopecia to participate in a research study to learn more about the condition. The University of Minnesota is just one of several institutions in the United States participating in this study, which is led by Dr. Olsen of Duke University. The information gained from this study will be used to help find clues as to the cause of this scarring hair disease.

There are two parts to this study:

  • Part 1: An in-person appointment at the University of Minnesota Department of Dermatology. At this appointment, participants will have non-identifying photographs taken of their scalp and their scalp examined.
  • Part 2: Participants will complete a detailed online questionnaire with questions about medical history, hair care practices, and family history of hair loss.

Participant requirements:

  • You must have had a scalp biopsy that confirmed the diagnosis of lichen planopilaris/frontal fibrosing alopecia

There is no compensation for participating in this study.

For additional information, please call the Department of Dermatology Clinical Research at 612-624-5721 or email derm@umn.edu.

Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma

Wrinkle Study

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Wrinkle Study

Dermatology Wrinkle Study

Study Title: “New Injection Treatment for Facial Wrinkles"

We are conducting a research study on individuals with moderate to severe facial wrinkles. The purpose of this research study is to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of hyaluronic acid-platelet rich plasma (HA-PRP), a treatment combination called Cellular Matrix BCT-HA-3, compared to PRP and placebo (inactive substance) for the improvement of skin quality on the midface area. Participant requirements:

  • Male and/or Female 30-65 years of age
  • Subjects with moderate to severe nasolabial folds contour deficiencies or other facial wrinkles.
  • Attend 6 visits over 32 weeks
  • Other requirements, which the study team will review with you

This study is being conducted by Dr. Maria Hordinsky and Dr Ronda Farah at the University Of Minnesota in the Department Of Dermatology. For additional information, please contact the study coordinator: Irmina Wallander 612-624-5721 email: wall0396@umn.edu or dermresearch@umn.edu