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Patenting acne treatment
A
promising new acne treatment has been identified by Clemson University
food microbiologists. The discovery came about as the scientists searched
for proteins that act as natural food preservatives. The protein is called
a bacteriocin, a tiny bit of antibiotic-like matter produced by bacteria.
The
bacteriocin discovered by the researchers
did not work as a food preservative, but it was 100 percent effective
in controlling acne bacteria in laboratory tests. The discovery has been
patented while it undergoes further testing to determine how it works
and to develop a method to increase production.
Because
of the technical challenges, it will probably be several years before
the product can begin clinical trials; but the Clemson discovery holds
tremendous promise as a topical treatment for millions of acne sufferers
around the world.
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