Revolutionizing Skin Health with our Advanced Engineered Biotherapeutics

Descrizione del progetto

Batteri ingegnerizzati: il futuro della cura dell’acne

I trattamenti cutanei tradizionali sono spesso ostacolati da scarsa penetrazione, mentre le procedure invasive e la resistenza agli antibiotici rappresentano sfide significative per la salute. Il progetto SkinEngineering, finanziato dal CEI, mira a risolvere questi problemi utilizzando batteri cutanei geneticamente modificati (Cutibacterium acnes) al fine di veicolare bioterapici direttamente nei follicoli piliferi; questi microbi modificati secernono in maniera continuativa molecole terapeutiche, fornendo un trattamento sicuro e di lunga durata. Oltre alla convalida preclinica e normativa, il progetto implementerà solide strategie di biocontenimento per la sicurezza, secondo un approccio non invasivo che offrirà un’alternativa sostenibile agli antibiotici, affrontando la sfida globale della resistenza antimicrobica e rivolgendosi a un enorme mercato internazionale della cura della pelle. In definitiva, il progetto si concentrerà sul perfezionamento di una strategia commerciale per attrarre investitori e partner farmaceutici.

Obiettivo

We have developed a ground-breaking patented technology that uses genetically engineered skin bacteria (C. acnes) to deliver biotherapeutics directly to the skin, offering safe, effective and long-lasting treatment for skin conditions such as acne. Our modified microbes continuously produce and secrete therapeutic molecules in the hair follicle, addressing the problems associated with invasive procedures and the poor transdermal penetration of traditional topical treatments.
Preclinical results from our previous EIC Transition project SKINDEV (coordinated by UPF), have demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing sebum and inflammation in vitro. Additionally, further studies have shown successful engraftment and safety in mouse models. The SkinEngineering project will advance our technology from proof-of-concept (TRL3) to preclinical and regulatory validation (TRL5), bridging the gap between promising research outcomes and the stage where we are ready to enter into commercial agreements with potential partners.
SkinEngineering will help us further refine our platform, complete preclinical studies and address regulatory and manufacturing aspects. We will also focus on ensuring the safety of our engineered bacteria, including robust biocontainment strategies. We have preliminarily validated the market fit of this effective and non-invasive therapy without adverse effects, confirming that it meets the needs of clinicians and patients in the €14 billion acne market. Our biotherapeutic also reduces the need for antimicrobial-based treatments, helping combat antimicrobial resistance, a key public health issue.
Our commercialization pathway involves launching a spin-off, Synflora, with SkinEngineering refining our business model and go-to-market strategy. Successful project outcomes will capture the attention of key stakeholders, e.g. investors, pharma/cosmetic companies and end users, boosting our company’s awareness and enhancing its investment readiness.