Bacterial Alchemy: Engineering Hope for Acne Treatment Unveiled in Groundbreaking Study

A groundbreaking study led by the Translational Synthetic Biology Laboratory at Pompeu Fabra University reveals a revolutionary approach to treating acne using engineered skin bacteria. The research team successfully engineered Cutibacterium acnes, a skin bacterium, to produce a therapeutic molecule targeting acne symptoms. Published in Nature Biotechnology, the study demonstrates the editing of the bacterium's genome to secrete NGAL protein, a mediator of the acne drug isotretinoin. This protein induces the death of sebocytes, reducing sebum production.

Traditional acne treatments involve antibiotics or isotretinoin, both with potential side effects. The engineered bacterium offers a targeted approach, producing the needed therapeutic molecules directly on the skin. The breakthrough addresses challenges in bacterial engineering, particularly with previously considered intractable bacteria like C. acnes. The synthetic bacterium, designed with safety features, has potential applications beyond acne, including skin sensing and immune modulation.

The study's success in mice is a promising step, with future applications in 3D skin models. The research extends into the 'SkinDev' project, aiming to engineer C. acnes for atopic dermatitis treatment. This innovative technology platform opens avenues for editing bacteria to treat various diseases, marking a transformative leap in the field of living therapeutics.