Adbiotech Develops Next-Generation Bioactive Platform Targeting Acne

Adbiotech has unveiled a next-generation bioactive platform for alleviating acne.

On March 25, the company announced that it has developed a fusion protein technology based on immunized egg yolk antibody (IgY) antibody fragments (scFv) that simultaneously targets Cutibacterium acnes—one of the main causative bacteria of acne—and the pathogenic factor CAMP1. This new technology features enhanced selectivity and functionality compared to existing antimicrobial materials.

Adbiotech explained that since acne is a disease involving a complex interplay between bacterial proliferation and inflammatory responses, rather than simply being a sebum issue, a precise approach to simultaneously control both causative bacteria and pathogenic factors is necessary.

This platform was designed by first selecting antigen-specific monoclonal antibodies in the form of scFv from a polyclonal IgY antibody library established through immunization, and then structurally combining them with a human-derived antimicrobial peptide, LL-37. Through this method, the company created a functional recombinant protein with both targeted binding capability against the causative bacteria and CAMP1, as well as antimicrobial activity.

Efficacy evaluations showed that the fusion clones combined with antimicrobial peptides exhibited overall enhanced binding ability compared to the existing SC18 antibody. Some candidates demonstrated improved efficacy, as evidenced by lower half-maximal effective concentration (EC50) values against both the causative bacteria and CAMP1. The company stated that synergy was observed from the fusion structure itself, beyond the simple combination of functional elements.

Positive results were also obtained in antibacterial activity assessments. In 48-hour minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) tests, all three candidates displayed concentration-dependent antibacterial inhibition, and the antimicrobial peptide fusions generally showed improved inhibitory activity compared to SC18. In certain ranges, an inhibitory effect comparable to that of the antibiotic tetracycline was also confirmed.

An Adbiotech representative stated, "This technology overcomes the nonspecific limitations of existing antimicrobial peptides and can selectively act against specific pathogenic bacteria. Starting with acne relief ingredients, we plan to expand the application scope to include skin microbiome diseases, inflammatory skin conditions, as well as scalp and seborrheic skin disorders."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.