Second High Authority of Health, Acne affects more than 3 out of 4 adolescents. In adults between 25 and 58 years old, this skin condition is present in 12% of women and 3% of men. This inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous follicle could disappear in the next few years thanks to a bacterium whose DNA has been genetically modified. In fact, researchers at Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona, Spain, have been working hard with other institutions to modify the genome of Cutibacterium acne, responsible for the disease. Their work was published Jan. 9 in the journal Biotechnology of nature.
What is this discovery for?
By modifying the genome of Cutibacterium acne,Scientists give the skin a little help by allowing it to produce a protein called NGAL. The latter will allow it to balance sebum production in cell lines.
If this treatment could be revolutionary, this bacterium was until now particularly difficult to manage, as Natassia Knödlseder, postdoctoral researcher at Pompeu Fabra University, explains. She says :
“It was incredibly difficult to introduce DNA and get protein production or secretion from something inserted into its genome”
She continues:
“We have developed a topical therapy with a targeted approach, using what nature already produces. We have engineered a bacterium that lives in the skin and makes it produce what our skin needs. Here we have focused on the treatment of acne, but we can extend the indications.”
The goal of this community of scientists? Being able to find a cure for another problem: atopic dermatitis.
Not yet tested on humans
Unfortunately, if the latter have made a giant step in terms of discovery, the acne treatment has not yet been tested on humans. We will therefore need to be patient before we can testify to its effectiveness.
In the meantime, if you suffer from severe acne and want to treat this skin condition, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor first. The latter will be able to recommend a dermatologist who will be able to understand and find the right solution for the specific needs of your skin.
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Source: Madmoizelle
Mary Crossley is an author at “The Fashion Vibes”. She is a seasoned journalist who is dedicated to delivering the latest news to her readers. With a keen sense of what’s important, Mary covers a wide range of topics, from politics to lifestyle and everything in between.
