Brian Kim Lab at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Translational Science and Medicine

Mechanistic cellular and molecular studies in the Kim Lab are efficiently tested and validated in human cells and tissues. Further, we employ preclinical modeling of human disease to test candidate targets, pathways, and drugs to quickly inform drug development. Thus, we are able to provide expertise in early stage drug development to biotechnology companies and CROs with regard to mechanism of action, route of delivery, and optimization of therapy. 

Basic Science

 
The Kim Lab has unique expertise in basic approaches and techniques in innate immunity, neuroimmunology, and behavioral modelling of chronic itch. Therefore, we are able to provide state of the art guidance on in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo experimental systems to better understand skin immunity, inflammation, and sensation. 
2

Discoveries

 
The Itch Clinic sees many different forms of chronic itch disorders. As a result, we have discovered new genetic mutations, syndromes, and diseases that present as chronic itch. Thus, we have opportunities to discover new disorders and develop novel diagnostics for various chronic itch disorders. 

World Class Team

We have a diverse and multidisplinary team of immunologists, neuroscientists, and clinicians. The Kim Lab has unique expertise in basic approaches and techniques in innate immunity, neuroimmunology, and behavioral modeling of chronic itch. Additionally, we actively design translational, clinical research studies, and interventional clinical trials. Thus, we are able to provide state-of-the-art guidance on everything from in vitro studies to phase 3 clinical trials to better understand cutaneous immunity, inflammation, and itch. 

Our Research

Clinical Trials

Treatments for chronic itch disorders are currently very limited due to lack of effective medications currently on the market. Therefore, we often take a personalized approach with off-label use of medications. Additionally, we have active clinical trials that patients can participate in pending qualification. If you have been diagnosed with one of the following, you may qualify for one of our ongoing studies:

 

 

Trial 1 – Chronic Pruritus of Unknown Origin (CPUO)

Trial 2 – Prurigo Nodularis

Trial 3 – Notalgia Paresthetica (NP)

Trial 4 – Atopic Dermatitis (AD) or Eczema

 

Support Our Science

Some of the greatest discoveries in biomedical research came through direct donations from generous individuals. The Kim Lab is grateful for the support it has received from philanthropic donors. If you are interested, you can donate here! Please be sure to specifically assign the donation to the Brian Kim Lab or Clinical Center for Itch or Mark Lebwohl Center for Neuroinflammation and Sensation.