The Cutaneous Biology Research Center (CBRC) at Massachusetts General Hospital is a multidisciplinary team of basic and physician scientists working together to conduct innovative fundamental and translational research on cutaneous structure, development, function and pathophysiology.

Dr. Fisher using a pipette

While emphasizing the continued importance of basic research in fundamental biological processes, CBRC researchers also focus on translating our discoveries into novel therapies for clinical skin disorders and sage guidance for the maintenance of healthy skin. Performance of translational research includes not only moving our discoveries to the clinic, but also using clinical observations to inspire basic research.

In performing our research, we share our extensive expertise in molecular and cell biology, immunology, genetics, epigenetics, chemical biology/screening, metabolism, laser physics and clinical dermatology.

Our research areas include melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, cutaneous immunology and inflammation, wound healing, pigmentation, UV protection, hair follicle biology, laser-assisted treatment of skin damage and disorders, and the sensation of itch.

Along with intradepartmental collaborative research, CBRC researchers collaborate with scientists in premier research programs throughout the world, including the neighboring Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, where several of our investigators are faculty members. This highly collaborative approach by elite investigators has led to groundbreaking discoveries in numerous areas of research that are rapidly being developed for clinical applications with the support of industrial collaborations.

Furthermore, the CBRC faculty serve as mentors to a large number of research fellows and students who are among the best in the world and that are well positioned to become the next generation of leaders in dermatological researchers.

The results of the efforts of CBRC researchers are consistently published in leading peer-reviewed journals, such as NatureScience and Cell, confirming the benefits of the rigorous collaborative environment and infrastructure of the CBRC in attracting and fostering premier scientific talent. Further information is available on the faculty and lab pages.