This study aims to enhance understanding of the factors influencing repigmentation in vitiligo by analyzing the molecular differences across various body locations. Vitiligo treatment requires both halting autoimmune depigmentation and stimulating melanocyte stem cell differentiation to induce repigmentation. However, repigmentation success varies significantly by body region, with the face and neck showing the best response and extremities like hands and feet being most resistant. By comparing mRNA expression in vitiligo patients and healthy individuals, this study seeks to uncover skin-level mechanisms that impact repigmentation.

Key Details

• Age Range: 18 to 70 years
• Estimated Enrollment: 20 participants
• Study Duration: Not specified

Inclusion Criteria

• Men and women aged ≥18 and <70 years.
• Diagnosed with non-segmental vitiligo or no autoimmune disorder for the control group.
• Women of childbearing potential must have a negative urine pregnancy test.
• Affiliation to a social security system.
• Signed informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• Segmental or mixed vitiligo.
• Vitiligo lasting less than 2 years.
• Other autoimmune or inflammatory skin conditions (e.g., psoriasis, atopic dermatitis).
• Recent sun or artificial UV exposure within one month of inclusion.
• Concurrent use of immunosuppressive medications or steroids.
• Allergy to xylocaine with 2% adrenaline.
• Vulnerable populations (e.g., minors, adults under guardianship).
• Participation in other clinical studies with potential interference.

Primary Objective

To compare mRNA expression in different cell types from skin biopsies of vitiligo patients and healthy volunteers across five body locations (neck, trunk, elbows, wrist, and feet). In vitiligo patients, samples will be taken from non-depigmented skin.

For a complete list of inclusion and exclusion criteria, interested individuals should contact the study team or visit the official ClinicalTrials.gov page (NCT06068218). Only the research staff can determine if a person fully qualifies for the study.

The VRF will continue to monitor the progress of this trial and provide updates as they become available. We encourage eligible individuals to consider participating in this important research effort to advance vitiligo treatment.