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Skin diseases are among the most common diseases in the global population and with the growth of the aging population, they represent an increasing burden to healthcare systems worldwide. Even though they are rarely life-threatening, the suffering for those affected is high due to the visibility and physical discomfort related to these diseases. Typical symptoms of skin diseases include an inflamed, swollen or itchy skin, and therefore, there is a high demand for effective therapy options. In recent years, electrospinning has attracted considerable interest in the field of drug delivery. The technique allows producing multifunctional drug-loaded fibrous patches from various natural and synthetic polymers with fiber diameters in the nano- and micrometer range, suitable for the treatment of a wide variety of skin diseases. The great potential of electrospun fiber patches not only lies in their tunable drug release properties and the possibility to entrap a variety of therapeutic compounds, but they also provide physical and mechanical protection to the impaired skin area, exhibit a high surface area, allow gas exchange, absorb exudate due to their porous structure and are cytocompatible and biodegradable. In the case of wound healing, cell adhesion is promoted due to the resemblance of the electrospun fibers to the structure of the native extracellular matrix. This review gives an overview of the potential applications of electrospun fibers in skin therapy. In addition to the treatment of bacterial, diabetic and burn wounds, focus is placed on inflammatory diseases such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, and therapeutic options for the treatment of skin cancer, acne vulgaris and herpes labialis are discussed. While we aim to emphasize the great potential of electrospun fiber patches for the treatment of skin diseases with this review paper, we also highlight challenges and limitations of current research in the field. [Display omitted] • Electrospun fibers act as multifunctional drug delivery systems. • Electrospun fibers can be tuned to induce local hyperthermia & melanoma cell death. • Electrospun fibers can be used to treat bacterial, diabetic and burn wounds. • Electrospun fibers can be used to treat inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis. • Many studies on electrospun fibers are currently lacking in vivo efficacy tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The follicular occlusion tetrad complex encompasses several entities (hidradenitis suppurativa, acne conglobata, dissecting cellulitis of the scalp, and pilonidal cyst) that share common clinical features, risk factors, and pathophysiology. Follicular occlusion is a crucial triggering mechanism in the etiology in each of these disorders, leading to development of distinctive skin lesions such as deep-seated nodules, abscesses, comedones, and draining sinuses, often with accompanying scarring. Despite the fact that the follicular occlusion tetrad components manifest multiple similarities, they also exhibit many differences among themselves and require individual approaches and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

L'acné est une pathologie cutanée inflammatoire chronique fréquente touchant le follicule pilosébacé. Elle survient surtout lors des modifications hormonales, en particulier pendant l'adolescence, mais peut se voir à tout âge. L'inflammation et les modifications hormonales entraînent une altération du fonctionnement du follicule pilosébacé avec une production excessive de sébum et une kératinisation anormale du follicule à l'origine de l'obstruction des pores et responsable des lésions présentes dans l'acné. L'inflammation est un précurseur indispensable au développement de la lésion acnéique et dans l'évolution de cette pathologie. L'acné juvénile polymorphe représente la forme commune de l'adolescent. On retrouve une association de lésions rétentionnelles et inflammatoires sur un fond de séborrhée sur le visage et parfois le haut du dos et le décolleté. Les acnés néonatale, infantile et prépubertaire, moins connues, entraînent souvent un retard diagnostique. L'examen physique recherche systématiquement des signes de virilisation et de puberté précoce qui nécessiteraient une prise en charge adaptée. L'acné est une dermatose « affichante », évoluant pendant plusieurs années. Elle peut avoir des répercutions psychosociales et ainsi altérer la qualité de vie. Elle est également à risque de séquelles cicatricielles. Les traitements de l'acné sont uniquement suspensifs (à l'exception de l'isotrétinoïne). Les traitements topiques représentent les traitements de première intention : peroxyde de benzoyle, rétinoïdes topiques, antibiotiques topiques, acide azélaïque, avec des possibilités d'associer certaines molécules. Parmi les traitements systémiques, on peut citer les antibiotiques oraux et l'isotrétinoïne. L'observance thérapeutique est nécessaire pour une efficacité optimale avec une réévaluation à 3 mois de chaque ligne thérapeutique introduite et une poursuite du traitement d'entretien aussi longtemps que nécessaire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-based diets and veganism are receiving increased attention for many reasons. Leading international nutrition organizations have determined that a well-planned and balanced plant-based diet is protective against such chronic diseases as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Many physicians may be unaware of its potential advantages, especially in the field of dermatology, and for this reason the vegan diet is often discouraged. Although the literature about diet in dermatology is limited, the introduction of foods of plant origin, vitamin B12 supplements, and elimination of animal products may have a protective role in skin diseases. There may be many benefits of a vegan diet for patients with acne, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis. • A vegan diet, which includes a wide variety of plant foods, provides ideal nutrients for skin diseases such as acne, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis. • The supplementation of vitamin B12, recommended in those who follow a vegan diet, seems to have a protective role. • Avoiding the intake of foods of animal origin and their derivatives is protective against the development of numerous skin diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Skin diseases contribute significantly to worldwide morbidity and mortality. • With increasing prevalence of COVID-19, skin complications are rising in number. • Essential oils contain ingredients which can be used for the prevention/treatment of skin disorders. • The mechanism of essential oils in the treatment of major skin disorders such as eczema, atopic dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, skin cancer, fungal infections and so on, have been discussed. • This knowledge will help the formulation scientists and clinicians in designing a suitable delivery system for the treatment of skin anomalies. Skin diseases contribute significantly to worldwide morbidity and mortality. It is the most common of all human diseases which can affect people of any age group. Most importantly, it is seen that the COVID-19 pandemic have further detrimentally contributed to dermatological manifestations. Due to the enormous socioeconomic burden created by skin disorders, the dermatological treatments have been added in the WHO List of Essential Medicines. Some of the major predominant diseases are acne, psoriasis, eczema, fungal infections and skin carcinoma. As a matter of fact, focus on treatment of skin diseases should be arguably considered as a matter of global urgency. Although treatments are available, they face numerous challenges which limit patient acceptability. Essential oils have a long history of pharmacological use; however their role in the treatment of dermatological disorders is vague. Therefore, in this review, the potential and mechanism of different essential oils obtained from various sources in the treatment of major dermal disorders has been summarized. This will help the formulation scientists and the clinicians to develop suitable formulation strategies for the prevention and cure of skin diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Some patients report new or worsening acne after starting elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor. • The immunologic basis of this adverse effect is unclear. • Treatment may require trial and error with combination topical therapies or systemic therapies. Elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ELX-TEZ-IVA) is a Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) modulator shown to improve lung function and reduce sweat chloride in people with Cystic Fibrosis (CF). The only commonly reported dermatologic adverse effect with CFTR modulators including ELX-TEZ-IVA is rash. In this case series, we describe 19 patients who reported new onset or worsening of acne after initiation of this drug to their CF pharmacist or another member of their CF care team. The mechanism and frequency of this adverse effect is unknown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Plasma metabolomics can help us provide information on acne pathogenesis. • The plasma metabolites and pathways were significantly changed in moderate-to-severe acne patients. • ABC transporters and the sphingolipid signaling pathway were significantly perturbed. Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease of pilosebaceous units and sebaceous glands. This study aimed to find out metabolites and metabolite pathways abnormal in moderate-to-severe acne vulgaris patients. The plasma metabolites LC-MS/MS analysis was conducted on 30 moderate-to-severe acne patients and 32 healthy controls. Multivariate data analyses were applied to identify the distinguishing metabolites. Totally, 63 significant differential metabolites and 40 metabolic pathways were significantly changed. The top 3 metabolites on the basis of their VIP scores obtained from the PLS-DA were 2-Oxoadipic acid, Myo-inositol and Citrate. In addition, four sphingolipid metabolites include sphinganine, sphingosine, O-Phosphoethanolamine, and sphingomyelin (d18:1/18:0) were identified. The most closely related metabolic pathways included ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters and sphingolipid signaling pathway in moderate-to-severe acne patients. The observed difference in metabolic profiles between acne patients and healthy controls provides a new insight into the link between plasma metabolic changes and acne vulgaris. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Tazarotene is a widely prescribed topical retinoid for acne vulgaris and plaque psoriasis and is associated with skin irritation, dryness, flaking, and photosensitivity. In vitro permeation of tazarotene was studied across the dermatomed human and full-thickness porcine skin. The conversion of tazarotene to the active form tazarotenic acid was studied in various skin models. Tazarotene-loaded PLGA nanoparticles were prepared using the nanoprecipitation technique to target skin and hair follicles effectively. The effect of formulation and processing variables on nanoparticle properties, such as particle size and drug loading, was investigated. The optimized nanoparticle batches with particle size <500 µm were characterized further for FT-IR analysis, which indicated no interactions between tazarotene and PLGA. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed uniform, spherical, and non-agglomerated nanoparticles. In vitro release study using a dialysis membrane indicated a sustained release of 40–70 % for different batches over 36 h, following a diffusion-based release mechanism based on the Higuchi model. In vitro permeation testing (IVPT) in full-thickness porcine skin showed significantly enhanced follicular and skin delivery from nanoparticles compared to solution. The presence of tazarotenic acid in the skin from tazarotene nanoparticles indicated the effectiveness of nanoparticle formulations in retaining bioconversion ability and targeting follicular delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The up-conversion (UC) of photon energy was attempted for the system of a colloidal clay dispersion through the mechanism of triplet-triplet annihilation. Tris(1,10-phenanthroline)ruthenium(II) ([Ru(phen) 3 ]2+) and 9, 10-diphenylanthracne (DPA) were used as a donor and an acceptor, respectively. A used clay mineral was synthetic saponite. A medium was 1:1:0.1 (v /v) methanol/dichloromethane/water. Δ-[Ru(phen) 3 ]2+ (4.9 × 10−5 M) was adsorbed by SAP (3.8 × 10−4 M) to 26% CEC. The dispersion was irradiated by a laser light (0.5 mW) at 450 nm in the presence of DPA (4.2 × 10−3 M). An emission with the peak around 430 nm was observed under air. It implied the Ru(II) complex adsorbed by a colloidal clay acted as a donor to achieve UC. Quantum yield of UC was estimated to be 0.009 ± 0.003. The effect of stereoselectivity was investigated when a chiral donor/acceptor pair was employed. Up-conversion of photon energy achieved in the presence of colloidally dispersed synthetic saponite. [Display omitted] • Up-conversion is achieved in SAP dispersion with a Ru(II) complex and DPA. • The presence of SAP decreases the minimum concentration of DPA required for up-conversion. • The enantiomeric complex exhibits a higher up-conversion yield. • Stereoselectivity is observed between diastereomeric pairs in the efficiency of up-conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acne is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 3 (TRPV3) is an ion channel that is involved in inflammatory dermatosis development. However, the involvement of TRPV3 in acne-related inflammation remains unclear. Here, we used acne-like mice and human sebocytes to examine the role of TRPV3 in the development of acne. We found that TRPV3 expression increased in the skin lesions of Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes)-injected acne-like mice and the facial sebaceous glands (SGs) of acne patients. TRPV3 promoted inflammatory cytokines and chemokines secretion in human sebocytes and led to neutrophil infiltration surrounding the SGs in acne lesions, further exacerbating sebaceous inflammation and participating in acne development. Mechanistically, TRPV3 enhanced TLR2 level by promoting transcriptional factor phosphorylated-FOS-like antigen-1 (p-FOSL1) expression and its binding to the TLR2 promoter, leading to TLR2 upregulation and downstream NF-κB signaling activation. Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of TRPV3 both alleviated acne-like skin inflammation in mice via the TLR2-NF-κB axis. Thus, our study revealed the critical role of TRPV3 in sebaceous inflammation and indicated its potential as an acne therapeutic target. • Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of TRPV3 alleviated acne-like phenotype in mice. • TRPV3 exacerbated acne-like skin inflammation by activating TLR2-NF-κB axis. • TRPV3 enhanced TLR2 transcription by promoting p-FOSL1 binding to the TLR2 promoter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acne vulgaris and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) are chronic inflammatory, multifactorial skin disorders that often develop in adolescence and young adulthood. Both acne vulgaris and HS can cause significant morbidity and psychologic distress, with a negative effect on the quality of life. The relationship among diet, acne, and HS remains somewhat controversial; however, there is increasing evidence that high-glycemic diets and consumption of milk and dairy products promote acne. Studies suggest that weight loss through dietary interventions or bariatric surgery and brewer's yeast exclusion diets have the potential to ameliorate the signs of HS. We review the role of diet in the pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment of HS and acne vulgaris. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycyrrhizae Radix et rhizome/licorice is a precious herb in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). TCM's polysaccharides are medicinally active. But herbal polysaccharides pose some limitations for topical applications. Therefore, this study aimed to utilize licorice polysaccharide via mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) for anti-acne efficacy in topical delivery. The polysaccharide (GGP) was extracted with a 10 % NaOH solution. Chemical characterization suggested that GGP possesses an Mw of 267.9 kDa, comprised primarily of Glc (54.1 %) and Ara (19.12 %), and probably 1,4-linked Glc as a backbone. Then, MSN and amino-functionalized MSN were synthesized, GGP entrapped, and coated with polydopamine (PDA) to produce nanoparticle cargo. The resulted product exhibited 76 % entrapment efficiency and an in vitro release of 89 % at pH 5, which is usually an acne-prone skin's pH. Moreover, it significantly increased Sebocytes' cellular uptake. GGP effectively acted as an anti-acne agent and preserved its efficacy in synthesized nanoparticles. In vivo , the results showed that a 20 % gel of MSN-NH 2 -GGP@PDA could mediate an inflammatory response via inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and regulating anti-inflammatory cytokines. The MSN-NH 2 -GGP@PDA inhibited TLR2-activated-MAPK and NF-κB pathway triggered by heat-killed P. acnes. In conclusion, fabricated MSN entrapped GGP for biomimetic anti-acne efficacy in topical application. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Solid lipid microparticles (SLMs) represent a promising approach for drug delivery in anti-acne applications. In this study, asiatic acid-loaded SLMs (AASLMs) were prepared by melt emulsification method in conjunction with freeze-drying. Comprehensive evaluations comprised particle size, %entrapment efficiency (%EE), %labeled amount (%LA), surface morphology, stability, %release, %skin permeation, and anti-acne activity. The AASLMs exhibited an average particle size ranging from 7.46 to 38.86 µm, with %EE and %LA falling within the range of 31.56 to 100.00 and 90.43 to 95.38, respectively. The AASLMs demonstrated a spherical shape under scanning electron microscopy, and maintained stability over a 3-month period. Notably, formulations with 10 % and 15 % cetyl alcohol stabilized with poloxamer-188 (specifically F6 and F12) displayed a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 75 mg/ml against Cutibacterium acnes. Furthermore, F12 exhibited a higher %release and %skin permeation compared to F6 over 24 h. In a single-blind clinical trial involving fifteen participants with mild-to-moderate acne, F12 showcased its potential not only in reducing porphyrin intensity and enhancing skin barriers but also in significantly improving skin hydration and brightness. However, further investigations with larger subject cohorts encompassing diverse age groups and genders are necessary to thoroughly establish the performance of the developed AASLMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecdysteroids, a class of naturally isolated polyhydroxylated sterols, stands at a very good place in the pharmaceutical industry from their medicinal point of views like anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, antioxidant, and anti-tumor effects. Due to their excellent antioxidant and anti-microbial potential, ecdysteroids have extensive use in skin products, especially derma creams. To monitor the best anti-acne phytoecdysteroids, here made use of different computational approaches, by using the rapid, easy, cost-effective and high throughput method to screen and identify ecdysteroids as androgen receptor inhibitors. 3D-QSAR study was carried out on a dataset of ecdysteroids by using comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) to determine the factors responsible for the activity of compounds. Statistically a cross-validated (q2) 0.1457 and regression coefficient (r2) 0.9713 indicated the best model. Contour map results showed the influence of steric effect to enhance activity. A molecular docking analysis was done to further find out the binding sites and their anti-acne potential against three crystal structured macromolecules (PDB ID: 2REQ, 2BAC, 4EM0). Docking results were further evaluated by prime MM-GBSA analysis and findings confirmed the accuracy. Toxicity by ADMET assessment was carried out and M2 was found as lead druglike with best anti-acne activity against Propionium acnes GehA lipase bacteria after passing all filters. This research study is novel because it is representing first effort to explore ecdysteroids class for their high therapeutic output as androgen receptor inhibitor by using computational tools and expectedly led to novel scaffold for androgen receptor inhibitor. This is a novel and new approach to investigate the ecdysteroids for first time for their practical applications. [Display omitted] • 3D-QSAR study by using Comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) determines the factors responsible for the activity of compounds. • Statistically a cross-validated (q2) 0.1457 and regression coefficient (r2) 0.9713 indicated the best model fit with seven compounds as active ligands. • Screened 7 ligands showed high binding affinity in range of − 7.8 to − 11.8 kcal/mol against receptors (PDB ID: 2REQ, 2BAC) and − 5.5 to − 7.5 kcal/mol against receptor (PDB ID: 4EM0) • 2 compounds (M2 & R6) of best binding affinity also fulfill the criteria of Lipinski rule of five. • M2 can serve as an effective lead compound in upcoming exploration for the inhibition of acne. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quercetin (QC) loaded chitosan (CS) nanofibrous patch (CS QC) was designed and fabricated successfully by solution blow spinning (SBS). And it was employed to explore a functional double-layer nanofibrous patch (CS QC /PLA) with polylactic acid (PLA) for overcoming the resistance of acne-causing bacteria to antibiotics and local cutaneous irritation. The nanofibrous patch possessed a fluffy bilayer structure with good air permeability, which may be befitted from the SBS method. The 10 % QC loaded CS QC0.10 /PLA had sustained release ability of QC for 24 h. A high free radical clearance rate (91.18 ± 2.26 %) and robust antibacterial activity against P. acnes (94.4 %) were achieved for CS QC0.10 /PLA with excellent biocompatibility. Meanwhile, E. coli and S. aureus were also suppressed with 99.4 % and 99.2 %, respectively. Moreover, the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) was significantly reduced, conducive to acne healing. Therefore, the CS QC0.10 /PLA bilayer nanofibrous patch designed here may shed some light on developing multifunctional materials for treating acne infectious wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Acne constitutes one of the most prevalent skin disorder affecting both skin and mental health of patients. However, no cure has been developed so far. In this area, Thymol constitutes a potential candidate since it is able to restore the healthy microbiota of the skin. However, its permeation properties cause its fast elimination and, to avoid this problem, thymol has been loaded into nanostructured lipid carriers (TH-NLCs). Moreover, to increase the suitability of these systems for skin applications, several surface functionalization strategies of TH-NLCs had been assessed. Among the different molecules, phosphatidylcholine-TH-NLCs demonstrated to be safe as well as to provide high antioxidant activity in cellular studies. Therefore, to administer these systems to the skin, functionalized TH-NLCs were dispersed into a carbomer gel developing semi-solid formulations. Rheological properties, porosity and extensibility of TH dispersed in carbomer as well as phosphatidylcholine-TH-NLCs were assessed demonstrating suitable properties for dermal applications. Moreover, both formulations were applied in healthy volunteers demonstrating that gel-phosphatidylcholine-TH-NLCs were able to increase in skin hydration, decrease water loss and reduce skin sebum. Therefore, gel-phosphatidylcholine-TH-NLCs proved to be a suitable system for skin pathologies linked with high sebum generation, loss of hydration and high oxidation, such as acne vulgaris. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • EGCG @ BSP/ HA MNs can be administered in situ for the treatment of acne vulgaris. • The microneedle backing material with DE adsorbs pus for simple debridement, effectively preventing secondary infections. • The microneedle body material is natural polysaccharide with good biocompatibility, dissolving and releasing EGCG rapidly. • EGCG is a natural polyphenol with highly effective antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin disease associated with Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), with serious physical and psychological effects on patients. Conventional topical use of antibiotics is not effective due to the skin barrier and oral administration can adversely affect the intestinal flora. Microneedle is a novel type of localized drug delivery system that noninvasively breaks through the stratum corneum barrier and effectively enhances the transdermal absorption of drugs. Here, Bletilla striata polysaccharide (BSP)/Hyaluronic acid (HA) loaded Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) was used as the microneedle body to easily penetrate the epidermis and enhance antibacterial ability. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and Diatomaceous earth (DE) are used as the microneedle backing to absorb pus and bacterial debris, prevent re-infection of bacteria and promote skin healing. Compared to traditional antibiotics, the excellent skin permeability of EGCG@BSP/HA MNs studied here can improve the efficacy and solve side effects and drug resistance. In vivo studies in mice models induced by P. acnes showed that this microneedle could effectively reduce skin swelling, inhibit bacterial growth and reduce the levels of TNF-α, IL-8 and MMP-2. In summary, this study provides an ideal antimicrobial drug delivery system for the treatment of acne vulgaris. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: After isotretinoin's approval to treat patients with recalcitrant acne, there have been continued debates around its psychiatric safety profile. This study aimed to assess the risk of psychiatric disorders in patients with acne who are taking isotretinoin.Methods: We used de-identified information from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database from 2000 to 2015 to examine the risk for psychiatric disorders among patients with acne who were taking isotretinoin. We performed subgroup analyses based on the dosage and duration of isotretinoin administration.Results: This study included 29,943 participants during a 16-year follow-up period. We found no significantly increased risk for psychiatric disorders among patients taking isotretinoin compared with patients who did not receive isotretinoin treatment (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 1.009, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.422-1.696). Subgroup analyses showed no significantly increased risk for psychiatric disorders in patients taking different doses of isotretinoin (≤ 20 mg per day, aHR: 0.892, 95% CI: 0.371-1.501; > 20 mg per day, aHR: 1.068, 95% CI: 0.446-1.798). There was also no significant increase in risk for patients undergoing isotretinoin treatment over different periods (≤ 6 months, aHR: 0.924, 95% CI: 0.392-1.612; > 6 months, aHR: 1.196, 95% CI: 0.488-2.004).Limitations: We did not analyze the risk of suicidal ideation, and it could be underestimated in medical claims databases.Conclusions: We found no increased risk of psychiatric disorders among Taiwanese patients with acne who were taking isotretinoin. Higher dosage or longer duration of isotretinoin treatment did not increase the risk for developing a psychiatric disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acne scars represent a therapeutic dilemma. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of combined subcision, autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and chemical reconstruction of skin scars (CROSS) technique in the treatment of acne scars. In 20 patients with atrophic acne scars, one facial side was treated with subcision plus PRP, and the other was treated with the same combination plus CROSS technique (trichloroacetic acid 50%) for 3 sessions at 3-week intervals. Clinical evaluation, digital photography, quantitative global scarring grading system, and Lipper and Perez score were done at baseline, every session, and 1 month after the last session. Participants assessed their improvement at the end of the follow-up period using a scale (0 to 10). There was a significant reduction in quantitative global scarring grading system (P <.001) and Lipper and Perez score (P <.001) after treatment compared with baseline in both sides. No significant difference was found when the two treated sides were compared after treatment by both scores. Patients' satisfaction was excellent (12 patients [60%]) and good (eight patients [40%]) with no significant difference between both sides. In conclusion, combined subcision and PRP is recommended for acne scars. Adding CROSS technique (trichloroacetic acid 50%) did not further ameliorate the condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acne is a common skin condition that is associated with long-term dermatologic and psychologic morbidities if left untreated. In this study, a survey was distributed via Amazon Mechanical Turk to evaluate for out-of-pocket costs associated with over-the-counter (OTC) acne treatment. A total of 515 respondents with acne were included, of whom 84% used OTC products, spending on average $121.99 ± $115.69 in the past year. Additionally, on average, Black respondents spent more on OTC products than those of other races, and there was a positive correlation between income and expenditure on OTC products. Consistent with the literature, we found that many patients self-treat with multiple OTC products and out-of-pocket costs are significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition encountered in specialties outside of dermatology, including obstetrics and gynecology. The pathophysiology of acne is complex and includes disruption of the cutaneous microbiome, abnormal keratinization, inflammation, and hormonal influences. Various topical and systemic treatment modalities target each component of acne pathophysiology. Clinically, acne can be broken down into noninflammatory, inflammatory, or mixed subtypes. The age of the patient at presentation and signs and symptoms of hormonal imbalance might prompt workup for underlying disorders. The severity as well as type of acne dictates the type of treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microbiome plays a significant role in human health, homeostasis, immune system, and disease pathogenesis. Disrupted communication between the microbiome and host has been extensively studied in gastrointestinal diseases. To a lesser extent, there is emerging research on the skin microbiome and its connection with the gut, referred to as the gut-skin axis and its effects on dermatologic conditions. A basic overview will be provided of the gut and skin microbiome with a focus on the impact of this connection on cutaneous diseases, such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, rosacea, acne vulgaris, photoaging, and cutaneous wounds. In addition, we shall discuss nutrition-based approaches mediated through the gut-skin axis and topical treatments that could serve as potential adjunctive management by manipulation of the microbiome. In particular, there is a growing body of research on oral probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary modifications that may help improve symptoms for a variety of dermatologic conditions in select demographic groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although dissecting cellulitis (DC) and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) are classified separately, they share many clinical, dermatoscopic, pathogenetic, and histologic aspects, as well as therapeutic options. The association between DC, HS, and acne conglobata represents the follicular occlusion triad or follicular occlusion tetrad , which may include a pilonidal sinus. DC, also known as "folliculitis et perifolliculitis capitis abscendes et suffoidens," is classified as a secondary cicatricial and neutrophilic alopecia. It occurs with perifolliculitis of the scalp, dermal abscesses, sinus tract development, and secondary scarring alopecia. HS, sometimes known as acne inversa, is a chronic relapsing inflammatory disease afflicting apocrine gland–rich areas of the body with painful nodules and abscesses, sinus tracts, and scarring. Given the overlap between the clinical features and the pathogenesis of DC and HS, it would be more appropriate to consider these conditions as two different localizations of the same disease rather than two different pathologies, being a follicular occlusion disease occurring on the scalp and on the apocrine gland–rich areas of the body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Hsa_circ_0105040 was a stable circRNA, which was predominantly distributed in cytoplasm and was significantly downregulated in acne. • Hsa_circ_0105040 acts as a competitive sponge for miR-146a in keratinocytes, promoting inflammation through the miR-146a-IRAK1/TRAF6 axis in acne. • Hsa_circ_0105040 acted as a ceRNA to competitively sponge miR-146a in human primary keratinocytes. • Hsa_circ_0105040 could regulate inflammation through the miR-146a -IRAK1/TRAF6 axis in acne. Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, and the pathogenesis of acne induced by Cutibacterium acnes (C.acnes) is not well understood. Recently, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have attracted much attention because of its involvement in various diseases. However, the mechanisms by which circRNAs regulated acne have rarely been reported. We identified several differentially expressed circRNAs by sequencing patient-derived acne tissues. Among them, hsa_circ_0105040 was determined to be low expressed in acne tissues and localized in the cytoplasm of human primary keratinocytes. We established a C.acnes biofilms model of acne in vitro and showed that hsa_circ_0105040 promoted inflammation via MAPK and NF-κB pathway. Mechanistically, hsa_circ_0105040 could directly bind to miR-146a and inhibit the expression of miR-146a. Moreover, hsa_circ_0105040 promoted the expression of IRAK1 and TRAF6 by sponging miR-146a, thereby elevating the level of inflammation in acne. Collectively, our data suggested that hsa_circ_0105040- miR-146a -IRAK1/TRAF6 axis was involved in regulating the inflammatory response in acne, which provided a potential therapeutic target for acne and a novel insight into the pathogenesis of inflammatory acne. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The total content of triterpenes and polysaccharides obtained from the innovative NaDES extraction of Fomes officinalis increased by 5.95- and 4.63-fold, respectively, compared to that of ethanol extract (P > 0.05). • Thirty days of long-term human efficacy evaluations showed that the extract can maintain skin health and reduce the occurrence of blackheads, acne, water–oil imbalance, coarse pore, and related skin problems. • The synergy between effective NaDES and extracts better meets the needs of actual efficacy. The active ingredients of Fomes officinalis obtained using different extraction methods were compared, and their efficacy in facial oil control, pore refining, and blackhead acne inhibition was investigated. Through a proton exchange reaction, betaine and 2-α-glucosylglycerol produced a natural deep eutectic solvent with surprising extraction properties. The total content of triterpenes and polysaccharides increased by 5.95- and 4.63-fold, respectively, compared to that of ethanol extract, whereas that of polyphenols remained the same (P > 0.05). In cellular experiments, the extract exhibited precise targeted inhibition of inflammatory pathway factors. In subsequent clinical facial trials, research participants showed significant improvements in oil, pores, blackheads, and overall skin conditions. Thus, the extraction process not only guarantees the efficient and efficacious use of resources, but also provides a new option for skin care and clinical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Applied materials from bio-wastes are becoming the center of attention for researchers due to convincing concerns for their effectiveness, bio-sustainability, affordability, and environmental friendliness. In this research, different forms of carbon particles (CP) were produced from walnut shells to check their response against acne. Surface chemistry of CPs was modified in two steps: first, by thermal or oxidative-thermal treatment, and second, by biochemical treatment with the drugs triamcinolone acetonide (TA) or hydrocortisone sodium succinate (HSS) at pH 4 and 7. Prepared CPs have been analyzed for their surface chemistry, morphology and bioactivity. With the exception of GTOT, surface modifications have decreased oil absorption capacity and drug release pattern while increasing dispersion, pH and base contents. The GTOT and PTOT-N1 samples exhibited highest oil absorption capacities of 0.137 g/0.05 g and 0.130 g/0.05 g, respectively. Additionally, thermal and thermo-chemical modifications have slightly decreased in-vitro anti-inflammatory activity but substantially decreased cytotoxicity (almost 5–6 folds in comparison to unmodified particles). Anti-inflammatory response has been checked against P. acnes. Among various prepared samples, it was observed that Bio-PUT-4 and Bio-PTOT-7 exhibited the most significant levels of anti-inflammatory activity, at 94.19 % and 93.54 % respectively. Thermally modified samples, additionally, have shown magnetic behavior. [Display omitted] • Bio-waste (Walnut shell) as source of carbon particles. • Thermal, Thermo-chemical, Biochemical surface modification. • Preparation of eco-friendly skincare product. • Promoting environmental sustainability through the recycling of bio-waste materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Acne patients had an abnormal in lipid profile. • Acne individuals with severe form are more inclined to acquire resistance to insulin as well as higher glucose and insulin levels. • Apo B-48 gene expression is elevated in acne individuals with severe form who have lipid abnormalities. • This illustrating the importance of genetic variables in acne, insulin resistance, lipid profile modifications as well as isotretinoin, a standard acne medication, can also cause lipid irregularities. The contribution of insulin to acne is that it stimulates the synthesis of androgenic hormones, which are important in the development of excess sebum, hyperkeratinization, and sebaceous gland cell growth. To ascertain whether the lipid profile abnomalies seen in acne vulgaris are genetically induced, we also seek to establish a link between insulin resistance and lipid profiles. An analytical cross-sectional study with case-control design research investigation of 72 individuals with acne vulgaris and 72 healthy volunteers was carried out. Both groups' medical histories were taken, as were the severity and duration of the disease among acne sufferers, as well as demographic data. Anthropometry tests were performed on both groups, including their weights, height, and circumference of waist, as well as the profile of lipids, blood glucose levels after a fast, insulin levels during fasting, resistance to insulin, and Apo B-48 folding change. Severe acne vulgaris patients showed significantly increased TG, TC, LDL-C, blood glucose levels after a fast, fasting insulin, and resistance to insulin levels. P = 0.005 showed that Apo B-48 expression increased in patients compared to healthy people. Apo B-48 folding change and insulin resistance were found to have a substantial positive simple linear association. Acne vulgaris, whether mild, moderate, or severe, has a significant positive linear connection with insulin resistance. Acne patients had an abnormal in lipid profile. Acne individuals with severe form are more inclined to acquire resistance to insulin as well as higher glucose and insulin levels. Apo B-48 gene expression is elevated in acne individuals with severe form who have lipid abnormalities. This illustrating the importance of genetic variables in acne, insulin resistance, lipid profile modifications as well as Isotretinoin, a standard acne medication, can also cause lipid irregularities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] This study aims to develop a pharmaceutical formulation that combines the potent antibacterial effect of lincomycin and lauric acid against Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes), a bacterium implicated in acne. The selection of lauric acid was based on an in silico study, which suggested that its interaction with specific protein targets of C. acnes may contribute to its synergistic antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. To achieve our aim, glycerosomes were fabricated with the incorporation of lauric acid as a main constituent of glycerosomes vesicular membrane along with cholesterol and phospholipon 90H, while lincomycin was entrapped within the aqueous cavities. Glycerol is expected to enhance the cutaneous absorption of the active moieties via hydrating the skin. Optimization of lincomycin-loaded glycerosomes (LM-GSs) was conducted using a mixed factorial experimental design. The optimized formulation; LM-GS4 composed of equal ratios of cholesterol:phospholipon90H:Lauric acid, demonstrated a size of 490 ± 17.5 nm, entrapment efficiency-values of 90 ± 1.4 % for lincomycin, and97 ± 0.2 % for lauric acid, and a surface charge of −30.2 ± 0.5mV. To facilitate its application on the skin, the optimized formulation was incorporated into a carbopol hydrogel. The formed hydrogel exhibited a pH value of 5.95 ± 0.03 characteristic of pH-balanced skincare and a shear-thinning non-Newtonian pseudoplastic flow. Skin deposition of lincomycin was assessed using an in-house developed and validated LC-MS/MS method employing gradient elution and electrospray ionization detection. Results revealed that LM-GS4 hydrogel exhibited a two-fold increase in skin deposition of lincomycin compared to lincomycin hydrogel, indicating improved skin penetration and sustained release. The synergistic healing effect of LM-GS4 was evidenced by a reduction in inflammation, bacterial load, and improved histopathological changes in an acne mouse model. In conclusion, the proposed formulation demonstrated promising potential as a topical treatment for acne. It effectively enhanced the cutaneous absorption of lincomycin, exhibited favorable physical properties, and synergistic antibacterial and healing effects. This study provides valuable insights for the development of an effective therapeutic approach for acne management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory responses stimulated by Propionibacterium acnes have been shown to be major etiological factors in the pathogenesis of acne. Scutellaria baicalensis , a popular traditional Chinese medicine, has been widely shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, primary component analysis and primary effective component analysis were conducted. The results showed that wogonin (1.15 mg/g S. baicalensis extract) possessed better anti-acne effects than wogonoside (8.71 mg/g S. baicalensis extract) in inhibiting the up-regulation of IL-1β and IL-8 level caused by P. acnes via inactivation of the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways. To enhance the anti-acne effects of S. baicalensis extract, an environmentally friendly and healthy plant fermentation strategy was used to efficiently convert glycoside-type constituents into bioactive aglycone. S. baicalensis extract was fermented by symbiotic fungus Penicillium decumbens f3-1 to transform wogonoside into wogonin with a conversion rate of 91.0% after 4 days. Fermented S. baicalensis extract (FSE) showed higher potential anti-acne effects than non-fermented S. baicalensis extract (NSE) by inhibiting the up-regulation of IL-1β and IL-8. Thus, P. decumbens -fermented S. baicalensis Extract may be used for developing new anti-acne cosmetic ingredients. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is a Gram-positive commensal bacterium, which is involved in the pathogenesis and inflammation of acne vulgaris. An antimicrobial peptide named bombinin-like peptide 7 (BLP-7), which was determined from Bombina orientalis , has been shown to possess certain antibacterial activity. This study was carried out with synthesized BLP-7 on the basis of the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities against P. acnes in vitro and in vivo. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of BLP-7 against P. acnes is 5 μM. And BLP-7 exhibits strong resistance to heat, pH and salt concentration, but no significant cytotoxicity to normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs). Using the co-culture of P. acnes and NHEKs, this study demonstrated that BLP-7 significantly reduced the production of interleukin (IL)-8 and granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), as well as the expression of these two pro-inflammatory cytokines at the transcriptional level. In a separate study, using the rat ear edema model, BLP-7 significantly suppressed P. acnes -induced skin inflammation, reducing the ear thickness by 54.21% of the negative control group. These results suggest that due to its anti- P. acnes and anti-inflammatory activities, BLP-7 could be used as a potential anti-acne agent. • The minimal inhibitory concentration of bombinin-like peptide 7 against Propionibacterium acnes is 5 μM. • Bombinin-like peptide 7 exhibits strong resistance to heat, pH and salt concentration. • Bombinin-like peptide 7 significantly reduced the production of two proinflammatory cytokines. • Bombinin-like peptide 7 significantly suppressed Propionibacterium acnes -induced skin inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the popularity of chitosan as a biodegradable polymer used in a variety of applications, clinical trials involving chitosan or its nanoparticles are still scarce. Moreover, the use of nutraceuticals as a replacement to conventional chemical treatments has become currently popular, and if combined with nanotechnology, nutraceuticals can achieve a comparable or even better therapeutic outcome. In the current work, chitosan nanoparticles loading the nutraceutical nicotinamide were optimized, characterized, and clinically tested on patients suffering from acne vulgaris. The topical merits of chitosan nanoparticles were proven, in which they exhibited strong skin adhesion ex vivo and high nicotinamide deposition in the different skin layers (stratum corneum, epidermis and dermis) amounting to a total of 68%. When clinically tested on patients, nicotinamide nanoparticles displayed 73% reduction in the inflammatory acne lesions compared to untreated areas, hence proving that chitosan nanoparticles can be a clinically sounding option for treatment of skin diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim was to determine the characteristics of patients who developed Cutibacterium acnes spinal implant-associated infection (SIAI) and the associated risk factors. We conducted two parallel case–control studies comparing 59 patients with SIAI caused by C. acnes (cases 1) and 93 patients with SIAI caused by other microorganisms (cases 2) diagnosed during 2010–2015 with 302 controls who underwent spinal instrumentation without subsequent infection. Late-onset infections (median time to diagnosis, 843 days versus 23 days; p < 0.001) were more common in cases 1 than in cases 2. However, 20/59 (34%) of cases 1 occurred within the first 3 months after the index surgery. In addition, cases 1 were less likely to have fever (27%, 16/59 versus 58%, 54/93; p 0.001) or wound inflammation (39%, 23/59 versus 72%, 67/93; p < 0.001). Moreover, 24/59 (40%) of cases 1 presented with polymicrobial infections, and staphylococcal pathogens accounted for 22/24 (92%) of the co-infections. By comparing and contrasting the two multivariate risk models (cases 1 versus controls and cases 2 versus controls), the following factors associated with C. acnes SIAI development were identified: age <54 years (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.43, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.09–5.58, p 0.03), a body mass index <22 kg/m2 (aOR 2.47, 95% CI 1.17–5.29, p 0.02), and thoracic instrumentation (aOR 16.1, 95% CI 7.57–37.0, p < 0.001). Future therapeutic and prophylactic studies on C. acnes SIAI should focus on young, thin patients who undergo spinal instrumentation procedures involving the thoracic spine. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) is associated with infection following shoulder and spine surgery due to follicular pore concentrations in these anatomic regions. It has been established that it can form biofilms on surgical implant materials, which may contribute to its role in perioperative infection, but its behavior of early colonization on those materials is not yet well understood.Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the time to adherence and subsequent biofilm formation of C. acnes in the first 24 hours on implant materials commonly used in spinal surgery.Study Design: We compared the colonization and behavior of C. acnes over time when applied to five commonly used spine implant materials - polyether ether ketone (PEEK), cobalt chromium (CC), stainless steel (SS), titanium, and titanium alloy.Methods: C. acnes was applied onto the samples of PEEK, CC, SS, titanium, and titanium alloy, and allowed to adhere for periods of 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 hours. Nonadherent bacteria were then washed from the samples. These samples were then allowed to continue incubating for a total 24 hours. Scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy were used to visualize all samples for the presence and quantification of C. acnes adherence at each time period. Subsequent transition to biofilm formation on these samples was assessed via scanning electron microscopy at each time period.Results: The PEEK specimens exhibited the highest amount of surface biological burden in the first 24 hours compared with the other materials, which displayed little or no adherence. Rapid biofilm formation first observed at 8 hours of allowed adhesion on PEEK, whereas no significant biofilm formation was seen on the other materials during the observed time period.Conclusions: Although C. acnes is known to have a slow proliferation rate, the results of this investigation demonstrate that it can rapidly adhere to and form a biofilm on PEEK. These data suggest that the use of PEEK implants placed during spinal surgery may facilitate early intraoperative colonization, and subsequent infection, compared with metallic implants.Clinical Significance: The findings of this study suggest that PEEK may prove to be problematic as a choice of implant material in cases were C. acnes infection is a possibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cutibacterium acnes has emerged as a significant cause of postoperative central nervous system infections (PCNSIs). We sought to determine risk factors and outcomes associated with C. acnes PCNSI. This was a single-center 1:1 case-control study of patients with monobacterial C. acnes –associated PCNSI (cases) and unmatched controls with PCNSI caused by aerobic organisms. Patient and procedure-related characteristics were compared between groups. The main outcome was cure at 90 days after diagnosis. Mortality and neurologic disability were secondary outcomes. We identified 13 patients with C. acnes PCNSI and 13 controls. All patients had postoperative intracranial abscess. Onset of infection was significantly later for cases versus controls (median and range, 22 [19–116] days and 15 [1–27] days, respectively; P = 0.002). Prolonged anaerobic incubation was required for C. acnes isolation (median, 8 days vs. 2 days for aerobic pathogens; P < 0.0001). The use of sealant and implants, fever at presentation, and white blood cell and C-reactive protein levels were similar between the 2 groups. All patients underwent surgical drainage. Patients received a median of 4 antibiotic drugs and 85 antibiotic days of treatment, with no significant between-group differences. Cure at 90 days was achieved for 10 patients (76.9%) with C. acnes PCNSI and 11 (84.6%) controls (P = 1.0). C. acnes PCNSI presents later than infection with aerobic bacteria but is associated with similar risk factors and clinical outcomes. These results underscore the importance of prolonged anaerobic incubation to optimize the recovery of C. acnes in the laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The diagnosis of cranial and intracranial C. acnes infection is very difficult because of indolent and delayed clinical and biological symptoms, sometimes for decades. • Twenty-three patients had an empyema, of which 12 (52%) were polymicrobial and 17 (74%) were associated with osteomyelitis. • None of the reported brain abscesses (without empyema) were polymicrobial or associated with osteomyelitis. • Drainage and adapted antibiotic therapy were associated with positive outcome. Cutibacterium acnes is a commensal bacterium of the skin, frequently reported in prosthetic shoulder or spinal implant infections, but rarely in cranial and intracranial infections. We retrospectively reviewed patients with intracranial samples positive to Cutibacterium acnes managed in the neurosurgical units of our hospital of Lyon, France, between 2008–2016. We included 29 patients, of whom 23 had empyema (with or without abscess), 17 had cranial osteomyelitis, and six only had abscess. Prior neurosurgery was reported in 28 patients, and the remaining patient had four spontaneous abscesses. Twelve patients had polymicrobial infections, including methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus in 11 cases. The clinical diagnosis was difficult because of indolent and delayed symptoms: a CT scan or MRI was required. Thirteen patients (52%) had material at the infection site. All patients with bone flap implant or bones from biological banks had a bone flap-associated infection. Drainage was surgically performed in 25 cases or by CT scan-guided aspiration in four cases. All patients received an adapted antibiotic therapy (from three weeks to six months). The outcome was favorable in 28 patients. Three patients relapsed during the antibiotic therapy, requiring further surgery. Cutibacterium acnes can be responsible for postoperative empyema and cerebral abscesses, with particular indolent forms, which make their diagnosis difficult. They are often polymicrobial and associated with bone flap osteomyelitis. Their outcome is favorable after drainage and adapted antibiotic therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Autophagy occurs constitutively in the sebaceous gland cells in human skin. • Autophagy markers are downregulated in the acne-involved sebaceous glands. • Inhibition of autophagy increases lipid accumulation in SZ95 sebocytes. • Rapamycin-induced autophagy suppresses stimuli-induced sebaceous lipogenesis. • Autophagy mediates the sebosuppressive effect of 13- cis -RA in SZ95 sebocytes. Autophagy is a catabolic process for eliminating damaged organelles or proteins to maintain cellular homeostasis. Recently, lipids have been demonstrated to be targets for autophagosomal degradation. Therefore, autophagy might be involved in sebaceous gland homeostasis, however, relevant data are lacking. We investigated the role of autophagy in sebaceous lipogenesis and its regulatory mechanisms in human SZ95 sebocytes. We also examined the possible role of autophagy in 13- cis -retinoic acid (13- cis- RA)-mediated sebosuppression. Autophagy markers expression was examined by immunohistochemistry in normal and acne lesional skin. SZ95 sebocytes were treated with autophagy inhibitors under starvation or treated with a combination of testosterone and linoleic acid (testosterone/LA), with or without autophagy inducer rapamycin or 13- cis- RA. Lipids were assessed by BODIPY and quantitative Nile Red staining. Autophagy‐related gene 7 small interference RNA was used to confirm the role of autophagy on the sebosuppressive effect of rapamycin or 13- cis- RA. Autophagy markers were strongly expressed in the maturing sebaceous gland cells in healthy skin, whereas downregulated in the acne-involved sebaceous glands. Testosterone/LA or insulin-like growth factor-1 inhibited starvation-induced sebocyte autophagy. Pharmacological inhibition of autophagy led to increased sebaceous lipid accumulation. Contrary, rapamycin inhibited the testosterone/LA-induced lipogenesis and expression of fatty acid synthesis genes via activating the autophagy pathway. 13- cis- RA increased autophagy in SZ95 sebocytes, partly via FoxO1 activation, and inhibition of autophagy abolished the sebosuppressive effect of 13- cis- RA. Autophagy plays an important role in the modulation of lipogenesis in human sebocytes and is involved in the sebostatic effect of 13- cis- RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The first study to describe the diversity of acne vulgaris T cell receptor β chain CDR3 in an overall analysis. • The diversity of TRB CDR3 sequences of the severe acne vulgaris group differed from that of the control group. • Found 10 TRB CDR3 sequences, amino acid sequences and V-J combinations that were highly relevant to the acne. Acne is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease, and the inflammation immune response runs through all stages of acne lesions. In this study, we use a combination of multiplex-PCR and high-throughput sequencing technologies to analyze T cell receptor β chain CDR3 (complementarity-determining region 3) in peripheral blood isolated from severe acne patients. Once compared with healthy controls, we propose to identify acne-relevant CDR3 peptides. Our results reveal that the diversity of T cell receptor β chain (TRB) CDR3 sequences in the peripheral blood of the severe acne vulgaris (SA) group differed from that of the control group. In addition, we find 10 TRB CDR3 sequences, amino acid sequences and V-J combinations with significantly different expressions between the SA group and the non-acne (NA) group (P < 0.0001). These findings may contribute to a better understanding of the role of immunity in the pathogenesis of acne and may serve as biomarkers for evaluating risk or prognosis of severe acne disease in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, a number of cosmeceutical incidents have occurred both domestically and internationally. These incidents range from minor burns on the skin to the explosion of a cosmeceutical factory. In most of these incidents, benzoyl peroxide (BPO) was reported as one of the hazardous compounds involved. Even after dilution, BPO still poses a hazard. This study examined the thermal stability parameters of BPO by using differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analyzer, and thermal activity monitor III. Advanced thermokinetic models were integrated and calculated, and complete thermal stability analysis of low concentration of BPO was conducted. The findings of this study may be used as a reference in future research on BPO decomposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose that acne vulgaris represents a naturally developing, transient inflammatory interaction of adolescent facial skin with its new microbial/chemical milieu (Cutibacterium acnes , sebum), replacing a state of previous childhood skin homeostasis. This concept might explain why acne is characterized by strong regional and age specificity, prevalent occurrence, and resolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acne seriously affects people's daily life. Acne severity level grading plays a decisive role in the cure. However, the acne criterion is not unified in the medical field. Most of the current studies explore the application of advanced visual models on acne severity grading but lack the adaptation to the characteristics of acne diagnosis. Meanwhile, some studies propose specifically adapted methods for respectively used acne criteria but cannot be used on other acne criteria. In this study, we propose an acne diagnosis method, Diagnostic Evidence Distillation (DED), that suitably adapts the characteristics of acne diagnosis and can be applied to diagnose under different acne criteria. Firstly, we fully investigate and analyze the commonality of various acne criteria and condense the face acne diagnosis into an unconventional image classification problem based on the diagnostic evidence of type and number of fine-grained lesions distributed on a whole face. Next, we propose the DED framework to adapt the characteristics of acne diagnosis. This framework uses the teacher–student structure of knowledge distillation methods to bring the diagnostic evidence, which is not available for new patients but only in training data, into the diagnosis model. To break the limitation of different criteria, the framework uses convolutional neural networks (CNNs) as backbones to imitate the global estimation of dermatology. We also propose a subtask joint learning for the teacher network to enhance its guidance to the student. The DED is applied to diagnose acne on two datasets ACNE04 and PLSBRACNE01 based on different mainstream acne criteria. The experimental results demonstrate that on both datasets, the DED effectively improves the diagnosis performance, exceeds the state-of-the-art and reaches the diagnostic level of dermatologists. The precision, sensitivity, specificity, Youden Index and accuracy reach 85.31%, 84.83%, 94.66%, 79.48% and 86.06% on the ACNE04 dataset and 69.16%, 65.62%, 88.93%, 54.54% and 67.56% on the PLSBRACNE01 dataset, respectively. • A classification based on the type and number of tiny targets of a whole object. • A novel distillation paradigm fuses arbitrary retrievable features into inference. • Intelligent acne diagnosis framework under different prevailing criteria. • The application of acne diagnosis reaches the state-of-the-art. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Huangqin Tang (HQT), a famous prescription with the effect of clearing pathogenic heat and detoxifying, was first recorded in "Treatise on Typhoid and Miscellaneous Diseases". It has proved that HQT has good anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and can improve acne symptoms clinically. However, the study on the regulation of HQT on sebum secretion which is one of the inducements of acne is not enough. This paper aimed to investigate the mechanisms of HQT in the treatment of skin lipid accumulation by network pharmacology and validating the results via in vitro experiments. Network pharmacology was employed to predict the potential targets of HQT against sebum accumulation. Then, the palmitic acid (PA)-induced SZ95 cell model was established to evaluate the effect of HQT on lipid accumulation and anti-inflammation, and the core pathways predicted by network pharmacology were verified in cell studies. 336 chemical compounds and 368 targets in HQT were obtained by network pharmacology, of which 65 targets were related to sebum synthesis. 12 core genes were revealed by protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment results suggested that AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway might play a crucial role in regulating lipogenesis. In vitro experiments, HQT suppressed lipid accumulation, downregulated the expressions of sterol-regulatory element binding protein-1 (SREBP-1) and fatty acid synthase (FAS), and upregulated AMPK phosphorylation. Furthermore, AMPK inhibitor reversed HQT-mediated sebosuppressive effect. The results disclosed that HQT ameliorates lipogenesis in PA-induced SZ95 sebocytes partially through the AMPK signaling pathway. [Display omitted] • Network pharmacology was employed to explore the mechanism of Huangqin Tang against skin lipid accumulation. • Huangqin Tang suppressed lipid accumulation by down-regulating the expression of SREBP-1 and FAS, and upregulating p-AMPK. • AMPK inhibitor reversed Huangqin Tang-mediated sebosuppressive effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]