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Published on: November 1, 2024
Topical phage therapy in a mouse model of Cutibacterium acnes-induced acne-like lesions
Amit Rimon1,2, Chani Rakov1, Vanda Lerer1
1Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research (IBOR), Faculty of Dental Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 91120, Israel.
Abstract:
Acne vulgaris is a common neutrophil-driven inflammatory skin disorder in which Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) is known to play a key role. For decades, antibiotics have been widely employed to treat acne vulgaris, inevitably resulting in increased bacterial antibiotic resistance. Phage therapy is a promising strategy to combat the growing challenge of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, utilizing viruses that specifically lyse bacteria. Herein, we explore the feasibility of phage therapy against C. acnes. Eight novel phages, isolated in our laboratory, and commonly used antibiotics eradicate 100% of clinically isolated C. acnes strains. Topical phage therapy in a C. acnes-induced acne-like lesions mouse model affords significantly superior clinical and histological scores. Moreover, the decrease in inflammatory response was reflected by the reduced expression of chemokine CXCL2, neutrophil infiltration, and other inflammatory cytokines when compared with the infected-untreated group. Overall, these findings indicate the potential of phage therapy for acne vulgaris as an additional tool to conventional antibiotics.
Insights
Phage therapy shows promise for treating acne vulgaris by effectively eliminating Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) bacteria. This approach reduced inflammation and improved skin lesions in a mouse model, offering an alternative to antibiotics.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Microbiology
- Bacteriophage Therapy
Background:
- Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin condition driven by Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes).
- Widespread antibiotic use for acne has led to increasing bacterial resistance.
- Bacteriophage therapy, using viruses to kill bacteria, presents a potential alternative.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of phage therapy against Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes).
- To evaluate phage therapy as a treatment for acne vulgaris.
- To compare phage therapy with conventional antibiotic treatments.
Main Methods:
- Isolated eight novel bacteriophages effective against C. acnes.
- Tested phage and antibiotic efficacy against clinical C. acnes strains.
- Utilized a C. acnes-induced acne-like lesion mouse model to assess topical phage therapy.
Main Results:
- Both novel phages and antibiotics eradicated 100% of tested C. acnes strains.
- Topical phage therapy significantly improved clinical and histological scores in the mouse model.
- Phage therapy reduced inflammatory markers, including CXCL2, neutrophil infiltration, and cytokines.
Conclusions:
- Phage therapy is a viable strategy for combating C. acnes infections.
- Topical phage therapy demonstrates significant therapeutic potential for acne vulgaris.
- Phage therapy can serve as a valuable adjunct to existing antibiotic treatments for acne.
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