An in vitro test for the evaluation of antiseborrheic activity

Summary An experimental in vitro method for the determination of antiseborrheic activity is compared with an in vivo test. The rate of uptake of glucose-(14)C in the isolated preputial gland of the rat from a nutrient culture medium was followed. The results were compared with those of an histological examination of the sebaceous glands of castrated rats treated with testosterone oenanthate, one side treated topically with the experimental composition, the other serving as a control. The active products tested were: (1) Positive activity in the in vitro test gave a reduction in the incorporation of the marked precursor which indicated a diminution of the metabolic lipidic activity of the sebaceous glands. (2) In the in vivo test activity was demonstrated by a reduction of the total number of glands and/or a diminution of the number of large or medium sized glands. The magnitude of the effect was proportional to the concentration of the tested products. The agreement between the results indicated that the in vitro test may be a useful screening test for molecules possessing antiseborrheic activity. It is simple in use with a rapid response and gives easily quantifiable results of good precision. Tirés à part: J. O. à l'adresse ci dessus.