New oral treatment for severe acne using selective CYP26 inhibitors.

Selective CYP26 inhibitors for the oral treatment of recalcitrant nodular acne.

NIH-funded research Dermaxon, LLC · NIH-10822482

This study is testing a new pill that aims to help people with severe acne by blocking certain enzymes that break down a skin-friendly vitamin, hoping to improve acne without the usual side effects of current treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 1 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDermaxon, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Missoula, United States)
Project IDNIH-10822482 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a new oral medication that selectively inhibits CYP26 enzymes, which are responsible for breaking down retinoic acid in the skin. By targeting these enzymes, the treatment seeks to provide an effective solution for patients suffering from severe recalcitrant acne while minimizing the adverse effects commonly associated with existing retinoid therapies. The approach focuses on creating a safer alternative that avoids the systemic side effects linked to traditional treatments. Patients can expect a potential improvement in their acne condition without the discomfort of typical retinoid side effects.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from severe recalcitrant acne who have not responded well to existing treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with mild acne or those who have not been diagnosed with recalcitrant acne may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a safer and more effective oral treatment option for patients with severe acne.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on retinoids, this specific approach using selective CYP26 inhibitors is novel and has not been extensively tested before.

Where this research is happening

Missoula, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.