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Acne vulgaris, affecting up to 97% of adolescents globally, is a widespread skin condition. Recent advancements in treatment are focusing on innovative topical products that specifically target the biofilm formation of Cutibacterium acnes, the primary bacterium linked to acne.
What we know:
Acne is characterised by increased sebum production, which leads to inflammatory lesions (papules, pustules or nodules) primarily on the face, back and chest. While C. acnes is linked to acne, its exact role is unclear due to its widespread presence in both healthy and acne-affected skin (Cavallo et al., 2022).
C. acnes strains are classified into six phylotypes: IA1, IA2, IB, IC, II and III, each associated with different body distributions, clinical conditions, antimicrobial susceptibility and inflammatory properties. The IA1 phylotype is predominantly found in moderate to severe acne and is notably more virulent, suggesting that the dominance of IA1 strains in acne patients may indicate a dysbiotic shift linked to microenvironmental changes within the follicle (Cavallo et al., 2022).
Biofilm production by specific C. acnes phylotypes is linked to colonisation of the pilosebaceous unit, potentially causing a homeostatic imbalance in the skin microbiome. Biofilms in acne follicles lead to persistent bacterial presence and relapse after antibiotic treatment, indicating a strong connection to biofilm-related colonisation. While biofilm is crucial for C. acnes persistence during antibiotic therapy, the factors promoting early adhesion and biofilm formation remain unidentified (Cavallo et al., 2022).
Industry impact and potential:
All C. acnes strains can form biofilm, but phylotype IA1 is the most effective at doing so. Research has shown that IA1 strains exhibit enhanced biofilm formation capabilities, including greater adhesion, increased biomass production, and a higher degree of antibiotic tolerance compared to other phylotypes (Cavallo et al., 2022).
@Vytrus Biotech has introduced Quora Noni™, a groundbreaking product featuring anti-quorum sensing molecules derived from plant stem cells. This innovative treatment targets acne by inhibiting the formation of virulent biofilms. Dubbed "the microbiome communication hacker," Quora Noni™ disrupts the communication between the skin microbiome and epidermal cells, delivering an effective bacteriostatic and anti-biofilm effect against C. acnes.
Our solution:
At Sequential, we specialise in comprehensive Microbiome Product Testing tailored to meet your specific goals in formulating products, such as acne treatment and prevention strategies. Our expertise and customised services empower businesses to innovate confidently in developing topical solutions. Additionally, we facilitate microbiome studies to ensure these products maintain microbiome integrity, promoting efficacy and compatibility for healthier skin.
References:
Cavallo, I., Sivori, F., Truglio, M., De Maio, F., Lucantoni, F., Cardinali, G., Pontone, M., Bernardi, T., Sanguinetti, M., Capitanio, B., Cristaudo, A., Ascenzioni, F., Morrone, A., Pimpinelli, F. & Di Domenico, E.G. (2022) Skin dysbiosis and Cutibacterium acnes biofilm in inflammatory acne lesions of adolescents. Scientific Reports. 12 (1), 21104. doi:10.1038/s41598-022-25436-3.