Propionibacterium acnes is the newly researched acne trigger which can be solved with new promising treatments!
Bacteria in the skin sometimes release fatty acids that trigger inflammation, the researchers report.
In a finding that could lead to new treatments for acne, scientists claim to have discovered a form, not previously known, in which bacteria trigger inflammation of the skin.
The skin is the body’s first line of defense against invading germs. But it is also constantly flooded with bacteria of all kinds – and usually does not resist.
The lead researcher says that it’s actually a great puzzle why we tolerate all these bacteria on our skin. Usually, we walk in peace with them. However, at certain times, distension breaks down and you get an infection.”
Propionibacterium acnes
In this study, the researchers focused on the bacterium Propionibacterium acnes. As the name implies, bacteria can contribute to acne as well as other infections.
Propionibacterium acnes usually lives on the skin without causing damage. But when bacteria get trapped under certain circumstances – in a clogged pore, surrounded by fat and without air – they can cause the inflammatory response known as acne. They found clues as to why this is happening.
Explanation
In laboratory experiments, researchers found that under certain conditions,Propionibacterium acnes secretes fatty acids that inhibit two enzymes in the keratinocytes – cells that make up most of the outermost layer of the skin. That, in turn, increases the inflammatory reactions of cells.
Basically they have discovered a new explanation for how bacteria trigger acne or other skin inflammations.
The results according to them may help explain the underlying process of acne and folliculitis – inflammation of a hair follicle that produces rashes that look like pimples or other skin symptoms.
Further research
Scientists will better understand the “why” that may trigger the development of new treatments. These findings “open many doors” for future research.
There are already a number of acne treatments that work following the pathway described in this study. They can reorient excess fat in the pores, the bacteria itself, or the inflammatory response of the skin.
There had been no truly new approach to the battle against acne for a long time, according to the researchers. The more drugs we have to choose, the better.
Propionibacterium acnes is not just a spectator. This organism can really change the functioning of our immune system.
We are basically a planet for all these bacteria, and we tolerate them. The scientists are now discovering more about how we can really regulate them.