The Potential Role of Compounds Derived From Ultra-processed Foods in the Pathogenesis: the UPAD Project

Status: Recruiting
Location: See location...
Intervention Type: Other
Study Type: Observational
SUMMARY

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition, primarily affecting children in urban and high-income areas. Its prevalence has increased significantly over the past 30 years, with up to 20% of children affected, often within their first year of life. AD is characterized by erythematous, scaly, pruritic lesions, xerosis, and frequent atopy, with distinct clinical features in children compared to adults. The pathophysiology of AD involves skin barrier dysfunction, immune response alterations, and environmental triggers. Genetic factors, particularly mutations in the filaggrin gene, play a significant role in severe AD, leading to increased water loss and skin dehydration. Immunologically, a Th2-predominant response drives inflammation, and environmental exposures, such as air pollutants and irritants, exacerbate the condition. Recent studies suggest that dietary habits, particularly a high intake of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), may contribute to AD by activating inflammatory pathways. UPFs, rich in advanced glycation end products (AGEs), induce oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially worsening skin damage. This study aims to explore the potential role of UPF-derived compounds, especially AGEs, in the pathogenesis of pediatric AD.

Eligibility
Participation Requirements
Sex: All
Minimum Age: 6 months
Maximum Age: 10
Healthy Volunteers: f
View:

• Caucasian subjects, both sexes, age: ≥6 months and ≤10 years, with a confirmed diagnosis of atopic dermatitis, and healthy controls matched for age and sex without atopic dermatitis;

• Written informed consent obtained from the participants and/or their parents/legal guardians.

Locations
Other Locations
Italy
Department of Traslational Medical Science - University of Naples Federico II
RECRUITING
Naples
Time Frame
Start Date: 2024-01-10
Estimated Completion Date: 2026-01-10
Participants
Target number of participants: 100
Treatments
Pediatric patients with AD
Pediatric patients with a confirmed diagnosis of atopic dermatitis
Healthy controls
healthy controls matched for age and sex without atopic dermatitis
Related Therapeutic Areas
Sponsors
Leads: Federico II University

This content was sourced from clinicaltrials.gov