A natural substance from beneficial gut bacteria has been found to greatly impede the development of vitiligo and could potentially revert skin pigmentation, according to a recent pre-clinical study conducted at Northwestern University using mouse models.
The results of this study bring optimism to the millions dealing with vitiligo, an autoimmune disorder that results in noticeable skin discoloration and has significant emotional and physical impacts.
“The outcomes we observed were remarkable,” stated I. Caroline Le Poole, the senior author of the study and a professor of dermatology and microbiology-immunology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.
“We discovered that giving a microbial compound weekly to mice predisposed to vitiligo notably slowed down disease advancement, showing a dramatic effect in a severe model of the condition.”
The findings were published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology.
Study Methodology
Le Poole and her team provided a microbial product to vitiligo-susceptible mice on a weekly basis over an 18-week period. At the conclusion of the study, the pigment loss on the backs of the mice had decreased by 74%.
This product diminished the number of killer T cells, which are known to attack skin pigment, while increasing the number of protective regulatory T cells, which are usually limited in vitiligo patients.
“This straightforward microbial compound could be utilized as a standalone treatment or in combination with current therapies,” said Le Poole.
Limitations of Current Treatment
In 2022, the FDA authorized the first re-pigmentation cream for vitiligo called Opzelura (ruxolitinib). However, clinical trials showed that only 30% of users achieved 75% or greater re-pigmentation on their face.
“Our research regarding the efficacy of microbial therapy may provide hope for patients who do not benefit from existing treatments,” Le Poole remarked.
Severity of Vitiligo in Darker Skin Patients
Vitiligo impacts approximately 0.5% to 2% of the world’s population and is associated with other health issues such as elevated cardiovascular disease risk, psychological challenges, and endocrine problems.
Skin discoloration commonly appears on areas like the face, scalp, hands, arms, and around openings in the body, including the mouth and genital area. Many individuals with vitiligo also experience at least one additional autoimmune disease.
Le Poole, who has dedicated over 30 years to researching vitiligo, noted that the condition tends to be more severe among individuals with darker skin. This increased visibility of discoloration can exacerbate stigma and emotional turmoil.
“Patients often feel helpless as they witness their disease progress without knowing how they will look in the future,” Le Poole explained. “For many individuals, stabilizing the disease would be transformative.”
Though vitiligo may impact self-esteem—especially for teenagers facing social pressures—some individuals embrace their condition.
“We have observed stunning models with vitiligo confronting societal norms, and that’s wonderful,” added Le Poole. “However, for those seeking treatment, it is crucial to offer genuine options that can prevent disease progression.”
Future Directions
The upcoming challenge is to optimize the microbial product for human application. “Weekly injections could be one avenue, but we should also consider simpler alternatives, such as a food additive or cream,” stated Le Poole. “We must also investigate the duration of its effects and the optimal timing for treatment.”
Le Poole highlighted that the same microbial compound administered to the mice may also be applicable for other autoimmune diseases, particularly those involving killer T cells in the skin.
“Our next phase involves collaborating with scientists from multiple institutions to enhance the compound, decipher its mechanisms, and evaluate its effectiveness alongside existing treatments for autoimmune disorders.”
Le Poole’s laboratory is located in the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center at Northwestern University.
