Acne, a dermatological condition that has long been a challenge for both adolescents and adults, may soon be addressed through a radical new approach. This change is due to innovative research conducted by the Pompeu Fabra University of Barcelona, under the leadership of Nastassia Knödlseder, a synthetic biologist.
Knödlseder's team transformed the cutibacterium acnes, previously known as the main culprit of acne, into a potential ally in the fight against this skin problem. How do you say? Fight fire with fire.
The revolutionary mechanism behind acne therapy
The project, as mentioned, is based on the genetic modification of cutibacterium acnes. It is a bacterium commonly found on human skin. Through sophisticated synthetic biology techniques, the researchers managed to induce the bacterium to produce a molecule called NGAL (neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin). Because it is important? This molecule plays a crucial role in the therapeutic process, acting directly on the sebaceous glands to reduce the production of sebum, the natural skin oil often responsible for clogging pores and causing acne.
You did the damage, and you fix it. An approach that goes beyond traditional therapies
Traditional acne therapies, such as antibiotics and the drug isotretinoin, have shown limitations and potential side effects. Antibiotics, for example, can alter the balance of the skin microbiome, while isotretinoin It is known for its rare but serious side effects. The new therapy, inspired by the mechanism of action of isotretinoin, instead aims to treat acne without these drawbacks, exploiting the innate capabilities of the modified bacterium.
Fight acne… with acne: promising results and future prospects
In laboratory tests on sebocyte cultures and in experiments on mice, the genetically modified bacterium showed a significant reduction in sebum levels, highlighting the potential of this therapy. Of course, it is important to note that mouse skin has significant differences from human skin, both in terms of structure and follicular density. Consequently, further human clinical studies are needed to fully evaluate the efficacy and safety of this innovative acne treatment.
Regardless, this development represents a significant step forward in the field of dermatology and synthetic biology. The possibility of using modified bacteria to improve skin health opens up new avenues not only in acne treatment, but also in other areas of medicine and cosmetics. As stated by the researchers in their study published in Nature Biotechnology (I link it here), these findings highlight the importance of future clinical trials to further explore the impact of this innovative therapy on human health and the treatment of skin diseases.
