Acne/Dermal Infections

Since the 1960s, topical antibiotics have been most commonly used as acne therapies in a rapidly expanding worldwide market. Emerging antibiotic resistance amongst acne-associated bacteria, however, is rising and the non-antibiotic-based current acne treatments have well documented toxic or undesirable side-effects.

NovaBiotics’ antimicrobial compounds have significantly less chance of resistance developing than current antibiotics and are significantly less toxic than existing antibiotics used to treat acne, whilst retaining high degrees of microbicidal activity. Also unique to NovaBiotics’ technology over limited current and emerging competition is its ability to kill both the bacteria and yeasts associated with acne. NovaBiotics’ proprietary active compounds have the potential therefore to provide an efficient standard of treatment for acne within a safe and effective topical preparation.

Acne is a common inflammatory disease of the skin, which affects 3 in 4 individuals aged between 15 and 45 and is more common in men than women. Acne causes physical pain and psychological suffering, is often associated with anxiety and depression and can lead to scarring, both physical and emotional.

Acne is caused by the hyperproliferation of keratinocytes (skin cells) and excessive secretion of sebum (oil) from the sebaceous glands surrounding hair follicles. The sebum surrounding the blocked hair follicles becomes stagnant and provides ideal conditions for the uncontrolled multiplication of commensal skin microorganisms represented by three groups: the Gram-positive cocci (including Staphylococcus aureus & S. epidermidis); the anaerobic diphteroids (especially Propionibacterium acnes); and the lipophilic yeast Malassezia furfur. These microorganims are also involved in the pathogenesis of other skin and soft-tissue infections, such as pityriasis versicolor and impetigo amongst others.

Registered in Scotland No. SC272344. Registered Address: NovaBiotics Ltd, Cruickshank Building, Craibstone, Aberdeen, AB21 9TR, UK

Investors in People