The Tolar Team is driven to find better and safer therapies for children with serious medical conditions.

Research Interests

The Tolar Team studies the cellular and molecular processes of genetic disorders and how to treat them. In particular, they focus on those without a cure. For the painful skin disease epidermolysis bullosa—which they were the first in the world to treat with bone marrow transplant--researchers investigate aspects such as the autoimmune component of the disease, gene therapy, wound healing, and skin replacement. Bone marrow failure disorders, such as Fanconi anemia, dyskeratosis congenita, and lysosomal and peroxisomal disorders, such as mucopolysaccharidoses and adrenoleukodystrophy—all currently treated with bone marrow transplant—are also being researched as potential targets for gene therapy. The laboratory team works together to combine a wide array of strengths and expertise, and is an active and enthusiastic collaborator with many other projects.

Locations

The Tolar Lab has two locations on the University of Minnesota campus, allowing unique collaborations between a variety of disciplines. The Stem Cell Team is located in the Stem Cell Institute in McGuire Translational Research Facility (MTRF) while the Cancer Team has space in the Masonic Cancer Research Building (MCRB).

Research Ethics at the University of Minnesota

We are committed to protecting research participants, upholding ethical standards, and improving our practice at every step of our work.

Learn more about our commitment to research ethics

Event Photos

 

Beyond the Surface: A Narrative Review Examining the Systemic Impacts of Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a rare genetic disease resulting from inadequate type VII collagen (C7). Although recurrent skin blisters and wounds are the most apparent disease features, the impact of C7 loss is not confined to the skin and mucous membranes. RDEB is a systemic disease marred by chronic inflammation, fibrotic changes, pain, itch, and anemia, significantly impacting QOL and survival. In this narrative review, we summarize these systemic features of RDEB and promising research avenues to address them.

Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2024) 144, 1943e1953; doi:10.1016/j.jid.2024.03.008