Islamabad: Scientists believe that a harmless virus called phage that lives on humans’ skin can be utilised as a treatment for acne.
There are around 11 different kinds of virus in this phage family that have the ability to target and kill bacteria that cause acne, according to experts at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and the University of Pittsburgh.
Lead scientist of the current work, Prof Robert Modlin, said: “Acne affects millions of people, yet we have few treatments that are both safe and effective.
“Harnessing a virus that naturally preys on the bacteria that causes pimples could offer a promising new tool against the physical and emotional scars of severe acne.”
Acne is caused when hair follicles become blocked with an oily substance called sebum, which the body makes to stop the hair and skin from drying out, according to the BBC.
Co-researcher Dr Jenny Kim, director of the UCLA Clinic for Acne, Rosacea and Aesthetics, said: “Antibiotics such as tetracycline are so widely used that many acne strains have developed resistance, and drugs like Accutane, while effective, can produce risky side effects, limiting their use.”
Presently, there is no ‘cure’ for acne and it would be a great discovery if scientists succeeded in using the virus as a treatment for the disease.
Dear TNT Reader,
At The News Tribe, our mission is to bring you free, independent, and unbiased news and content that keeps you informed and empowered. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism, as we understand that we are a platform for truth.
Apart from independent global news coverage, we also commit our unique focus on the Muslim world. In an age marked by the troubling rise of Islamophobia and widespread misrepresentation of Muslims in Western media, we strive to provide accurate and fair coverage.
But to continue doing so, we need your support. Even a small donation of 1$ can make a big difference. Your contribution will help us maintain the quality of our news and counteract the negative narratives that are so prevalent.
Please consider donating today to ensure we can keep delivering the news that matters. Together, we can make a positive impact on the world, and work towards a more inclusive, informed global society.
Donate Monthly Subscription Annual Subscription