Systemic photoprotection in organ transplant recipients

The incidence of keratinocyte-derived carcinomas is surging globally. It is a well-established fact that sunlight triggers DNA damage, a precursor to skin cancer. Nonetheless, current local and physical protective measures are underutilized. Hence, there is a pressing need to explore alternative avenues for photoprotection. The project draws on insight gained from PhD student Celina Pihl's research on photoprotection in a preclinical skin cancer model using mice.

Within this PhD project, the historical usage of systemic agents as a means of photoprotection for immunocompromised patients (organ transplant recipients) is looked into.  A thorough examination is performed through the collection of data from international databases as part of a systematic review. The research is subsequently cross-referenced with the above-mentioned preclinical skin cancer model. Following this, the efficacy of systemic photoprotection is assessed in both a healthy control group and an immunocompromised patient cohort.

The objective of the research is to enhance the prevention and treatment of keratinocyte-derived skin cancer, and to translate the findings into clinical applications for the betterment of individuals afflicted by skin cancer.