Cell therapy based on fibroblasts has shown promise in the treatment of psoriasis due to immune modulation capability and strong expansion when cultured. Work at Fibrobiologics Inc. has focused on the impact of culture format and donors of human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) on the therapeutic efficacy and immune responses in murine models of psoriasis.

Recludix Pharma Inc. recently presented data on their new STAT1/3 inhibitors REX-6553 and REX-6547 for treating dermatological inflammatory skin diseases.

Netherton syndrome is a rare disease caused by loss of activity of the lympho-epithelial Kazal-type-related inhibitor (LEKTI) protein, which in turn is caused by mutations in its encoding gene, SPINK5. This deficiency leads to the triggering of the kallikrein (KLK) signaling cascade resulting in skin barrier dysfunction, inflammation and atopy. At the recent Society for Investigative Dermatology meeting, Biocryst Pharmaceuticals Inc. presented early data on BCX-17725, a KLK5/KLK14 inhibitor fusion protein developed to restore LEKTI functioning in patients with Netherton syndrome.

Scientists at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology have identified and characterized human antibodies that neutralize the measles virus by blocking its entry into the cell. This is the first time that antibodies have been shown to bind effectively to two essential viral proteins, creating a dual blockade that prevents infection. Unlike the current vaccine, which is based on an attenuated virus and is not recommended for immunocompromised individuals, these monoclonal antibodies could be used both as a new vaccine approach and as a treatment for the entire population.

Evotec SE has announced the nomination of a small-molecule preclinical development candidate from its multi-target drug discovery alliance in medical dermatology with Almirall SA. The program is aimed at developing novel treatments for immune-mediated inflammatory skin diseases with high unmet medical need. The collaboration, established in 2022, leverages Evotec’s fully integrated, AI/machine learning enhanced discovery and preclinical development platforms.

BLR Bio LLC has presented new data highlighting the potential of BLR-200 for the treatment of systemic sclerosis (scleroderma). The company also presented data on its research on CCN proteins as potential noninvasive biomarkers for systemic sclerosis.

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a life-threatening autoimmune disease affecting the skin, causing painful erosions on the skin and mucous membranes. PV is caused by IgG4 autoantibodies that target desmoglein 1 (DSG1) and DSG3, which are involved in keratinocyte cell-cell adhesion. There is a high unmet medical need for PV, since current therapies rely on systemic corticosteroids and immunosuppressants.