A First-in-Class Antivirulence Drug for the Treatment of Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

The causes of atopic dermatitis appear to be multi-faceted, and the central premise is related to dysfunctional (hyperactive) immune systems. However, contemporary evidence has pointed to an unprecedented theory regarding the pivotal role played by bacteria on the skin in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis. Indeed, the high percentage of colonization of certain species of bacteria in patients suffering from atopic dermatitis has lent credence to the current notion.

The relationship between bacteria colonization and atopic dermatitis is complex, with bacteria contributing to the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis via exacerbation of skin inflammation and barrier dysfunction. Additionally, the presence of certain species of bacteria on the skin can induce an immune response that further exacerbates atopic dermatitis symptoms.

 Antenovus aims to develop a small molecular drug, ABL-1, that renders the skin bacteria innocuous. ABLS-1 is devoid of any immunosuppressant activity (e.g. corticosteroids, PDE4 inhibitor, JAK inhibitors, etc.) which is commonly employed for pharmacological management of atopic dermatitis, and thereby eradicating the related devastating side-effects.

Taken together, ABL-1 would be revolutionizing and providing the spark to ignite the transformation of the current treatment paradigm of atopic dermatitis by providing an immunosuppressant-free anti-inflammatory treatment for atopic dermatitis.