Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin condition also known as eczema. Patients with AD often experience itchy skin, red and brown blotches of skin, swollen or dry patches, and anxiety due to the condition. It also makes the skin more vulnerable to environmental irritants and allergens. Treatments, including topical medications, phototherapy, immunosuppressant drugs, and steroids, are currently targeted only to relieve symptoms
Epidemiology evidence suggests that AD affects 15 to 20 percent of children and 1 to 3 percent of adults globally. In Singapore, it is estimated to affect 20 percent of children and 11 percent of adults.
As part of the National Atopic Dermatitis Research Programme, we aim to get deeper insights into this complex skin condition through our multidisciplinary approach.
The exact cause of AD, which belongs to a spectrum of atopic disorders, is unknown. There is a known genetic component, as it runs in families with skin conditions. Mutations in the gene Filaggrin, which encodes a protein necessary for forming the skin barrier, often result in AD.
The holistic approach to AD research in SRIS involves leading researchers, dermatologists, and industry partners to focus on the underlying causes of AD to discover effective novel therapeutics.
With comprehensive data to identify biomarkers and drug targets to treat AD, we aim to understand the skin barrier, microbiome, and host immunity interaction. Our prime focus of interest is to innovate a series of next-generation diagnostic tools and patient-specific engagement tools. Our program, encompassing clinical, genomic, and imaging data collected from patients, facilitates us to understand AD pathogenesis in Asian populations.
For more information on the National Atopic Dermatitis Programme, please contact Steven Thng or John Common.