Acne

We collaborate closely with our clients

to build a healthier future.

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the pilosebaceous units, manifesting as both non-inflammatory and inflammatory lesions. The condition arises from a complex interplay of factors, including hyperkeratinization of the follicular epithelium (1), increased sebum production (hyperseborrhea) (2), colonization by Cutibacterium acnes (3), and an inflammatory immune response (4).

Its prevalence and severity are influenced by various factors, including genetics, hormonal fluctuations, and environmental conditions. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as diet and stress play a significant role in symptom exacerbation.

Acne affects about 85% of individuals aged 12 to 24, with many experiencing persistent symptoms into adulthood, making it one of the most widespread dermatological conditions. This underscores the need for advanced dermatological solutions and rigorous research to develop effective products that target and prevent all types of acne lesions.

At QIMA Life Sciences, we support our clients in drug discovery and development by providing advanced solutions for both preclinical and clinical stages.

Interested in learning how we can support your drug discovery and development?

Learn more below.

Related Publications

SELECTED PUBLICATIONS ON ACNE

Spatial Distribution and Functional Impact of Human Scalp Hair Follicle Microbiota

Androgens induce sebaceous differentiation in sebocyte cells expressing a stable functional androgen receptor

Immortalized sebocytes can spontaneously differentiate into a sebaceous-like phenotype when cultured as a 3D epithelium

A skincare combined with combination of adapalene and benzoyl peroxide provides a significant adjunctive efficacy and local tolerance benefit in adult women with mild acne

>> Check the full list HERE.

Conference Contributions

We share our research on dermatology and trichology through international conferences and publications, contributing to the advancement of research in these fields.

>> Check our past contributions HERE.

Preclinical Research Solutions

Clinical Research Solutions

IN VITRO MODELS

EX VIVO MODELS

  • Human Skin Explants (Ex vivo skin)
  • Re-Innervated Ex Vivo Skin
  • Full-Length Terminal Hair Follicles with Sebaceous Glands
  • Human Full-Thickness Skin with Full-Length Terminal Hair Follicles and Sebaceous Glands

BIOANALYSIS OF CLINICAL SAMPLES

  • Sample collection (swabbing or tape stripping)
  • Analysis and quantification of cellular components (DNA, proteins, lipids) via analytical chemistry
  • Biomarker analysis

CLINICAL IMAGING

  • Image capture
  • Image analysis
  • Ilustration services
  • Grading solutions

CLINICAL TRIALS

  • Clinical study implementation
  • Clinical study performance
  • Data management
  • Data analysis

Environmental Factors:

External stressors can be simulated in our laboratories to study their effects on skin and to evaluate the efficacy of protective treatments:

    • Particular matter (PM)
    • Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

Peroxidized squalene serves as an essential marker of environmental pollution, and we can track it both preclinically and clinically.

Acne Study Examples

HYPERSEBORRHEA

Test: Squalene content

Interest: Sebum has a unique lipid signature, including wax esters and squalene, and is modulated by hormones, microbiota, and diet. The Differentiation Mix (DM) mimics hormonal and dietary imbalances, inducing induce sebocyte differentiation and squalene synthesis.

Method: LC-MS/MS

Model: In vitro model of androgen-sensitive sebocytes (SEBO662AR, In vitro 2D)

Interpretation of results: Squalene levels resulting from the stimulation with DM are reduced upon addition of 2 sebo-regulatory reference molecules, rapamicin and enzatulamide (Rapa and Enza, respectively).

HYPERKERATINIZATION

Test: Keratinocyte differentation

Interest: Hyperkeratinization is characterized by the abnormal shedding of keratinocytes, leading to blocked follicles.

Method: Immunohistostaining (green: filaggrin)

Model: Reconstructed Human Epidermis (RHE)

Interpretation of results: Filaggrin is a key component of the stratum corneum and can thus be observed in the outermost layers of the epidermis. The addition of the Test Compound reduces the number of cells in the stratum corneum, as evidenced by decreased filaggrin levels in the epidermis.

MICROBIAL COLONIZATION & INFLAMMATION

Test: Pro-inflammatory cytokine release

Interest: Bacterial colonization of the skin triggers inflammatory responses, which can be assessed through the quantification of proinflammatory molecules.

Method: ELISA

Model: Sebocyte cell line, SEBO662.

Interpretation of results: The presence of skin-resident and acne-inducing bacteria induces the synthesis and release of IL-8, a pro-inflammatory cytokine.

CLINICAL STUDIES

Study: Assessment of acne marks

Method: Image analysis

Model: Human volunteers

Interpretation of results: The treatment led to a significant reduction in acne marks compared to baseline (quantitative data not presented). The accompanying image illustrates both the before and after effects overlaid on an avatar representation.

ControlTest Compound
BeforeAfter

At QIMA Life Sciences, we are committed to staying at the forefront of dermatology research by developing innovative approaches.

We offer smart solutions for studying acne using validated models at both preclinical and clinical stages, making us the perfect partner for your research.

Explore All Our Models & Tests in Our Brochure

DOWNLOAD HERE

Blog Articles

How Dermocosmetics Can Enhance Adherence to Acne Treatment

Understanding and Managing Post-Inflammatory Acne Lesions

How Digital Clinical Imaging Analysis Can Help Proving the Clinical Efficacy of Products Designed for Oily Skin and Acne-Prone Skin

What’s New in Testing?

PRECLINICAL SOLUTIONS

Squalene Synthesis Modulators

Reconstructed Skin with Artificial Sebum

Interested in Learning More?

Explore Other Related Topics

ANDROGEN-SENSITIVE SEBOCYTE CELL LINE

DOWNLOAD THE FLYER

SEBOREGULATION

WATCH THE VIDEO

FACE IMAGING SYSTEM: COLORFACE® 

DynaCam technical datasheet

DOWNLOAD THE DATASHEET

OILY SKIN AND ACNE RESEARCH & TESTING

WATCH THE WEBINAR REPLAY

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