TLDR Scientists found a new gene in a bacterium that can modify an immunosuppressant drug, potentially helping to treat hair loss.
In the 2014 study, researchers discovered a new gene, CYP-pal, in Pseudonocardia autotrophica that specifically hydroxylates cyclosporin A (CsA) at the 9th N-methyl leucine, a modification important for creating non-immunosuppressive derivatives potentially useful for hair loss treatment. Out of 31 cytochrome P450 hydroxylase genes found in P. autotrophica, only the inactivation of CYP-pal stopped the hydroxylation of CsA. The role of CYP-pal was further confirmed through gene complementation and expression in Streptomyces coelicolor. This study's findings highlight the potential for biotechnological applications in the selective modification of CsA for therapeutic use.
13 citations,
January 2013 in “Applied and Environmental Microbiology” A gene in Sebekia benihana, CYP-sb21, is needed for a specific reaction on the drug Cyclosporine A, which could be important for hair growth without affecting the immune system.
36 citations,
January 2006 in “Veterinary Dermatology” Cyclosporin effectively and safely treated skin diseases in three pets with no side effects.
August 2023 in “The American Journal of Medicine” A young woman with lupus was treated with hydroxychloroquine and prednisone.
17 citations,
June 2017 in “Journal of pharmaceutical sciences” Researchers developed a nanomedicine for acne treatment that delivers medication with less irritation and is non-irritating for oily skin.
14 citations,
January 2016 in “Annals of dermatology/Annals of Dermatology” Oral cyclosporine is more effective and safer than betamethasone for treating alopecia areata.
13 citations,
December 2008 in “Veterinary dermatology” A rabbit with sebaceous adenitis was effectively treated with ciclosporin and medium-chain triglycerides.
13 citations,
October 2012 in “InTech eBooks” Nanocarriers could improve how drugs are delivered through the skin but require more research to overcome challenges and ensure safety.
