Clinical Potential of Novel Microbial Therapeutic LP51 Based on Xerosis-Microbiome Index

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Microbiome Research
• Skin Barrier Function

Background:

• Xerosis (dry, rough skin) presents significant discomfort and aesthetic challenges.
• Conventional xerosis treatments often yield limited efficacy, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches.
• The skin microbiome's role in skin health is increasingly recognized, suggesting therapeutic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of microbiome therapeutic LP51 in improving xerosis.
• To investigate LP51's impact on skin hydration, barrier function, and associated inflammatory markers.
• To explore the relationship between LP51 treatment and the xerosis-microbiome index.

Main Methods:

• A 4-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving 43 subjects with dry inner arm skin.
• Comparison of a 2.9% LP51 extract formulation against a placebo.
• Assessment of stratum corneum hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and skin barrier parameters.
• In vitro cytotoxicity tests for safety evaluation.

Main Results:

• The LP51 group showed a significant increase in stratum corneum hydration (10.0 A.U. vs. 4.8 A.U. in placebo).
• LP51 treatment resulted in a 21.4% decrease in TEWL, indicating improved skin barrier function.
• LP51 demonstrated anti-atopic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, with no observed cytotoxicity.

Conclusions:

• Microbiome therapeutic LP51 is effective in improving xerosis by enhancing skin hydration and barrier function.
• LP51 positively modulates the skin microbiome, as indicated by changes in the xerosis-microbiome index (Firmicutes/Actinobacteria ratio).
• LP51 represents a safe and promising novel therapeutic agent for managing dry skin conditions.