The Challenge

Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa (RDEB) is a rare genetic skin fragility and blistering disorder in which no curative treatment currently exists with palliative care only in use. 

The Solution

Our proposed solution is to develop a gene editing curative treatment that can be applied topically to wound sites of RDEB patients. 

This therapeutic approach will enable the permanent correction of the underlying mutations that give rise to RDEB, in a non-invasive manner. 

graphic illustrating team idea for gene editing therapy

The Team

  • Team Lead: Professor Wenxin Wang, Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin 
  • Team Co-Lead: Dr Nan Zhang, School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University College Dublin 

Project Team:

  • Dr Irene Lara-Sáez, Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin 
  • Mr Jonathan O’Keeffe Ahern, Charles Institute of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University College Dublin 

Societal Impact Champion

  • Dr Sinead Hickey, Head of Research of DEBRA Ireland
Left to right: Dr. Irene Lara-Sáez, Dr. Nan Zhang, Prof. Wenxin Wang, Mr. Jonathan O’Keeffe Ahern