Topical Minocycline Gel uniquely effective in treatment of Acne

BioPharmX a specialty pharmaceutical company developing products for the dermatology will share research suggesting that BPX-01, the company's topical gel formulation of minocycline, may exhibit relevant antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties for the treatment of acne. Data from cellular analysis shows minocycline's effectiveness may be due to its antimicrobial effect and its ability to modulate the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines associated with acne pathology.

BioPharmX will share its findings in a poster entitled "BPX-01 Topical Minocycline Gel Reduces P. acnes-Induced Inflammatory Lesions in Mice" today at a conference hosted by the American Society for Cell Biology (ASBC) and European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) in Philadelphia, the company's first presentation of these data to the cellular biology community.

Study findings show that minocycline has anti-inflammatory activities in in vitro and animal models. Researchers identified two markers, cytokine IL-1 alpha, and IL-6. P. acnes of inflammatory cytokine IL-1 alpha secretion in human keratinocytes. Researchers found that minocycline can decrease stimulated IL-1 alpha secretion and modulate the production of IL-6 in keratinocytes.

"Antibiotic resistance to topical clindamycin has become more prevalent in acne patients," said Kin F. Chan, executive vice president of research and technology at BioPharmX. "The development of a topical minocycline gel may provide an alternative with significant therapeutic benefits that are currently only available through the use of an oral formulation, which exposes patients to the risk of adverse side effects."

The 2017 ASCB/EMBO meeting is the largest gathering of cell scientists. The meeting is expected to attract 6,000 attendees from around the world.

About BPX-01
BPX-01¹ is a hydrophilic (non-oil-based) topical gel with fully solubilized minocycline that has been shown to penetrate the skin to deliver the antibiotic to its target. Following positive results from its previously announced phase 2b study of BPX-01 in acne, BioPharmX continues with phase 3 clinical study plans for BPX-01 for the treatment of acne.