Within the expansive field of dermatological research, innovations often come from the most intricate of sources. As acne continues to challenge modern medicine, nanoparticles emerge from the shadows, promising a potential revolution in its treatment. Read on to discover the groundbreaking work from Australia, offering hope to millions globally.
Young Woman With Acne
“Acne impacts a significant 9.4% of the global population, predominantly adolescents. This leads to emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, reduced self-esteem, and social withdrawal,” states Fatima Abid of the University of South Australia (UniSA). “While oral medications abound, their side effects and water solubility issues often make topical treatments a preferred choice for many.”
Abid’s research, focusing on nanoparticles combined with the antibacterial Narasin, presents a promising avenue for those dealing with acne.
Narasin Encased in Nanoparticles
The team from Australia succeeded in encasing Narasin an antibacterial agent within nanoparticles, with dimensions approximately 1,000 times smaller than a human hair. As per a publication in the journal Nanoscale, this configuration enables easier skin penetration. More notably, when presented in gel form and applied to acne areas, it demonstrated efficacy against bacteria resistant to commonly prescribed drugs.
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Tests on pig ears revealed that these nanoparticles were absorbed at rates surpassing traditional water-based treatments by 100 times, suggesting a rapid delivery mechanism for Narasin to affected areas.
Combatting Resistant Acne
The treatment of acne is becoming increasingly complex due to antibiotic-resistant acne bacteria. Professor Sanjay Garg, who guided Fatima Abid’s research, emphasized in a release the urgency of developing novel, effective, and safer antibacterial treatments in light of growing resistance.
With enhanced absorption and targeted delivery, these nanoparticles may represent a more effective approach for tackling resistant acne strains.
Read Also: Antibiotics Must Be Prescribed Carefully for Skin Infections to Avoid a Health Crisis
Final thoughts
In conclusion, the fusion of nanotechnology with current therapeutic agents like Narasin might pave the way for advanced acne treatments. With growing challenges such as antibiotic resistance, it’s pivotal for the medical community to explore and embrace such innovations. The commitment of researchers, as evidenced by the University of South Australia’s work, ensures that the journey towards better acne solutions remains a steadfast pursuit.
References
Abid, F., Savaliya, B., Parikh, A., Kim, S., Amirmostofian, M., Cesari, L., Song, Y., Page, S. W., Trott, D. J., & Garg, S. (2023). Nanotechnology and narasin: a powerful combination against acne. Nanoscale, 15, 13728-13739. https://doi.org/10.1039/D3NR01789C
