Are there potential new treatments for vitiligo?

A study published by the Journal of Investigative Dermatology reveals a potential breakthrough treatment for those diagnosed with vitiligo. Vitiligo is a disease that causes the loss of skin color in patches, affecting the skin on any part of the body. This autoimmune disease can also affect hair, the inside of the mouth, and eye color. Vitiligo is also linked to other health challenges, including higher risks of developing another autoimmune condition, cardiovascular diseases, endocrine disorders, and more.

Dr. Caroline Le Poole and her team at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine used vitiligo-prone mice models and administered a microbial product to these mice for 18 weeks. After 18 weeks, the mice's pigment loss was reduced by 74% due to a reduction of killer T-cells attacking the skin's pigment and an increase in protective regulatory T-cells. This treatment could potentially be more effective than existing treatments, such as Opzelura (ruxolitinib) cream, where only 30% of patients in clinical trials regained 75% or more skin re-pigmentation on the face.

Vitiligo is more severe in those with darker skin tones, which can amplify stigma and emotional distress. With the new treatment, there is potential to improve this condition for more patients. Dr. Le Poole emphasized that this treatment may also work for other autoimmune conditions that involve killer T-cells in the skin. While the microbial product has proven effective in mouse models, the next step is to adapt it for human use and test it in clinical trials.

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