New bacteria-targeting enzymes to fight acne
Official title: Development of novel endolysins targeting Cutibacterium acnes to treat acne vulgaris
Funded at Topaz Biosciences, INC. · NIH-11183989 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Developing species-specific enzymes to remove the acne-causing bacterium Cutibacterium acnes for people with acne.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Topaz Biosciences, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Emeryville, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,469,201 |
| NIH project number | 2R44AR082722-02A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11183989 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People with acne vulgaris, especially those with inflammatory lesions or who are worried about antibiotic side effects or resistance, would be the most likely candidates for future trials.
✕Less likely to help
People whose acne is driven mainly by hormones, scarring, or non-bacterial causes may not see much benefit from a bacteria-targeted topical enzyme.
What this research studies
This program is creating engineered phage-derived enzymes (endolysins) that can selectively break down the cell walls of Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria linked to acne. Researchers use metagenomics and protein engineering to find and improve enzymes that are potent, soluble, and specific so they spare beneficial skin bacteria. Work includes laboratory optimization and preclinical testing to create a topical treatment that avoids broad-spectrum antibiotics. If successful, the approach would move toward manufacturing and clinical testing led by the company.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could reduce acne by killing the specific acne-causing bacteria while avoiding broad antibiotics and preserving the healthy skin microbiome.
How similar studies have gone: Endolysin-based treatments have shown promise against other bacteria in early work, but applying them to Cutibacterium acnes is relatively new and prior attempts faced problems with specificity and solubility.
Where this research is happening
-
Topaz Biosciences, INC.
Emeryville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Oliver Wei — Topaz Biosciences, INC.
- Study coordinator: Liu, Oliver Wei
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.