Early research suggests a compound derived from bacteria significantly slows the progression of vitiligo and may restore pigmentation, according to findings published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology.
In the pre-clinical study, investigators injected exopolysaccharides (EPSs) isolated from Bacillus subtilis into a strain of vitiligo-prone mice. Treatments were administered weekly for 18 weeks. By the end, pigment loss on the mice’s backs was reduced by 74%.
The compound reduced killer T cells that attack the skin’s pigment and increased protective regulatory T cells, typically scarce in vitiligo patients.
“The results in our model were astonishing,” said senior study author Dr. I. Caroline Le Poole in a press release. Dr. Le Poole is a professor of dermatology and microbiology-immunology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago.
“We found that administering a microbial compound weekly to vitiligo-prone mice significantly suppressed disease progression. It made a spectacular difference in an aggressive model of the disease.”
Dr. Le Poole said the compound could work as a standalone therapy or in synergy with existing vitiligo treatments.
“Our findings about the effectiveness of microbial therapy could give hope to patients who are not well-served by existing treatments,” Dr. Le Poole said.
The next challenge is adapting the microbial product for human use.
“Weekly injections could work, but we need to explore simpler options, like a food additive or ointment,” said Dr. Le Poole. “We also need to understand how long the effects last and the best timing for treatment.”
Dr. Le Poole added that the same microbial compound she and her colleagues injected in mice could potentially treat other autoimmune conditions, particularly those involving killer T cells in the skin.
“Our next step is collaborating with scientists from several institutions to refine the compound, understand its mechanisms and determine whether it works alongside existing treatments for autoimmune disease.”
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