Exploring the Molecular and Cellular Pathways in Dermatological Conditions
Session Number
2
Advisor(s)
Desirae Klimek, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
Location
A149
Discipline
Medical and Health Sciences
Start Date
15-4-2026 11:10 AM
End Date
15-4-2026 11:55 AM
Abstract
Skin functions as the first line of defense against pathogens and has a paramount role in maintaining numerous bodily functions. This independent study explores the anatomy of the skin and the underlying mechanisms of dermatological diseases. The following categories of conditions were studied: cancerous lesions, infections, autoimmune disorders, genetic diseases, and eczemas, with three representative conditions analyzed for each category. For each category, a structured literature review was conducted, covering pathophysiology, molecular and cellular pathways involved, clinical presentation, diagnostic tests, and current treatments. Across each category, there were shared mechanisms of action, including dysregulated keratinocyte proliferation for cancerous lesions, pathogen-induced inflammatory signaling in infections, triggered autoantibodies in autoimmune disorders, inherited defects in genetic diseases, and impaired epidermal barrier function in eczemas. By investigating these pathways, this study provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how cellular disruptions manifest as clinical dermatological conditions.
Exploring the Molecular and Cellular Pathways in Dermatological Conditions
A149
Skin functions as the first line of defense against pathogens and has a paramount role in maintaining numerous bodily functions. This independent study explores the anatomy of the skin and the underlying mechanisms of dermatological diseases. The following categories of conditions were studied: cancerous lesions, infections, autoimmune disorders, genetic diseases, and eczemas, with three representative conditions analyzed for each category. For each category, a structured literature review was conducted, covering pathophysiology, molecular and cellular pathways involved, clinical presentation, diagnostic tests, and current treatments. Across each category, there were shared mechanisms of action, including dysregulated keratinocyte proliferation for cancerous lesions, pathogen-induced inflammatory signaling in infections, triggered autoantibodies in autoimmune disorders, inherited defects in genetic diseases, and impaired epidermal barrier function in eczemas. By investigating these pathways, this study provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how cellular disruptions manifest as clinical dermatological conditions.