A recent Journal of Drugs in Dermatology study about a micropeptide with anti-aging and anti-inflammatory effects made news in Dermatology Times. The study, “Acetyl Dipeptide-31 Amide: A Novel Cosmetic Anti-Inflammatory Peptide That Demonstrates Anti-Aging, Firming, and Lifting Benefits,” was conducted by Patricia Farris, MD, FAAD, and representatives of Kenvue Brands. In vitro, researchers found acetyl dipeptide-31 amide (AP31) significantly reduced the release of four inflammatory mediators as well as tumor necrosis factor alpha, and significantly increased levels of dermal extracellular matrix components. Researchers also noticed increases in extracellular matrix biomarker levels when AP31 was used in human skin explants. AP31 also positively impacted genes that are involved in barrier function, skin hydration, skin plumping, and epidermal metabolism. In addition, a clinical study of use over 16 weeks showed improvements in jawline sagging, global lift, nasolabial fold appearance, fine lines and wrinkles, smoothness, skin tone, and hyperpigmentation. The researchers recommended additional studies of AP31 on subjects before they show noticeable signs of skin aging to determine the usefulness of this micropeptide in this population.
The Dermatology Digest interviewed an author of a JDD study that shared guidelines on the use of deucravacitinib. The study, “A Review of the Safety and Efficacy of Deucravacitinib for Plaque Psoriasis: An Expert Consensus Panel,” was conducted by dermatology resident Milaan Shah, MD, and researchers across the country. After reviewing the results of a comprehensive literature search, a panel of 10 dermatologists with expertise in psoriasis management crafted consensus statements on the efficacy, safety, and recommended laboratory monitoring for deucravacitinib. The expert panel concluded that deucravacitinib has a superior safety profile in comparison with traditional JAK inhibitors. The panel also did not find evidence of deucravacitinib inducing abnormalities in lab work. Therefore, the panel concluded that lab work – baseline and/or ongoing – is not necessary or required.
Healio wrote about a JDD study on the early benefits of a triple combination topical for acne. The study, “Early Acne Improvements With Fixed-Combination Topical Therapy: Analysis of the First 4 Weeks of Treatment,” was conducted by Steven R. Feldman, MD, PhD, and colleagues from across the country. The researchers sought to determine if a combination fixed topical with improved efficacy would provide early improvements. Researchers looked at data for seven acne topicals with combinations of adapalene, benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin phosphate, and tretinoin. Overall, the product with the greatest efficacy at week four was a triple combination product: clindamycin phosphate 1.2%/adapalene 0.15%, and benzoyl peroxide gel 3.1%. The products with the next greatest efficacy were combinations of adapalene and benzoyl peroxide. Researchers noted that real-world use may result in even greater efficacy as early results may improve treatment adherence and long-term outcomes.
