All articles tagged with #eczema
Biotech startup Infinimmune raises $75 million in a Series A led by Regeneron Ventures (with Playground Global) to advance its human B cell–based antibody platform for eczema, including lead antibodies IFX-201 and IFX-101 moving to Phase 1 next year. Regeneron’s investment aims to complement Dupixent, Merck remains an investor, and the company envisions additional large‑pharma partnerships as it advances its pipeline.
University of Pittsburgh researchers show that scratching an itch activates mast cells to release histamine and substance P, boosting inflammation and prolonging the itch-scratch cycle in an eczema-like mouse model; mice prevented from scratching or lacking itch-sensing neurons had less inflammation, while scratching altered the skin microbiome, suggesting itching evolved partly to defend against infection but worsens chronic dermatitis. Cold compresses and 1% hydrocortisone cream can help relieve itching.
University of Pittsburgh researchers found that scratching an itch triggers mast cells to release histamine and other inflammatory chemicals, increasing inflammation and prolonging the itch-scratch cycle. In mice, those allowed to scratch showed more substance P and inflammation, while preventing scratching reduced inflammation; scratching also lowered levels of Staphylococcus aureus, but the skin damage from chronic scratching likely outweighs this benefit. Cold compresses and 1% hydrocortisone can help relieve itching. The study, published in Science, sheds light on the evolutionary role of scratching in skin defense but with a caution for chronic inflammation.
AbbVie agreed to acquire Apogee Therapeutics for $10.9 billion in cash, gaining control of zumilokibart, a late-stage anti-IL-13 eczema antibody that could compete with Lilly’s Ebglyss and Regeneron/Sanofi’s Dupixent. The deal complements AbbVie’s immunology portfolio (Skyrizi, Rinvoq) and may offer less frequent dosing (every 3–6 months) based on Phase 2 data. Apogee previously secured up to $1.3 billion from Blackstone Life Sciences, and the transaction values the stock at $135.11 per share. Key milestones include one-year Phase 2 data anticipated in early 2027 and Phase 3 data in 2028."
University of Michigan researchers identify a dedicated population of touch-sensitive neurons that innervate fine vellus-like hairs (peach fuzz) and transmit mechanical itch in a mouse model of chronic skin inflammation. Removing or silencing these neurons markedly reduces scratching, and activating them with blue light reproduces itch behavior, confirming causality. The study also maps transmission proteins linking hairs to the spinal cord, with human neurons responding to the same proteins, suggesting a conserved mechanism and a potential new therapeutic target for persistent itch in eczema and related conditions.
Dermatologists warn that concentrated laundry pods can leave a film of surfactants and fragrances on fabric, especially at waistbands and cuffs, which can irritate sensitive skin and contribute to eczema in children. Practical steps include using fragrance-free, dye-free detergents, avoiding pods, adding an extra rinse, washing new clothes first, and considering patch testing if flare-ups persist, alongside daily skin care and wearing gentle fabrics.
New research identifies a brain-to-skin neural circuit that, under stress, activates eosinophils and fuels inflammation in atopic dermatitis, explaining how psychological stress worsens eczema in both mice and humans (51 participants showed higher stress and more inflammation).
A Science study shows a brain-to-skin neural circuit where stress activates sympathetic nerves that drive eosinophils, worsening eczema. In mice, reducing eosinophils diminished the stress-related flare, while in humans higher stress correlated with more inflammation and eosinophils, suggesting potential therapies that target this neuroimmune pathway to alleviate eczema symptoms.
Corvus Pharmaceuticals reports encouraging early-stage results for its oral eczema treatment soquelitinib: after eight weeks, 75% of treated patients reached EASI-75 and 33% achieved clear or almost clear skin versus 20% and none on placebo, suggesting potential superiority to Dupixent, though data are preliminary and from a small trial.
Johnson & Johnson has discontinued its mid-stage trial of the experimental eczema drug JNJ-5939 after it failed to meet efficacy goals, but remains committed to developing other treatments for atopic dermatitis.
A young runner was misdiagnosed with shingles after developing a rash during marathon training, leading to an 8-hour ER visit and unnecessary treatment before being correctly diagnosed with eczema, highlighting issues in medical diagnosis and costs.
Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting about 10% of U.S. adults and children, characterized by red, itchy skin, with no current cure, making treatment challenging.
Maternal prenatal stress triggers early-life eczema in offspring by programming fetal mast cells through elevated corticosterone levels, leading to skin barrier alterations and heightened mechanical sensitivity, with effects reversible by corticosterone normalization.
Research shows children with higher levels of triclosan in their urine are 23% more likely to develop eczema symptoms, highlighting concerns over its presence in various personal care products despite regulatory restrictions.
Apogee Therapeutics' promising eczema drug showed strong efficacy in Phase 2 trials, outperforming rivals like Sanofi's Dupixent, but its shares fell sharply after the announcement. The drug could potentially rival Sanofi's top revenue-generating treatments if further trials succeed, with plans for Phase 3 testing in 2026.