Anti-inflammatory microbes and their potential as topical therapeutics

The epidermis of skin is the primary interface between the body and the outside world. As such, the epidermis is constantly under threat of dehydration as there is a permenant driving force for water to leave the skin to the external dry environment. Added to this, the skin is constantly exposed to stressors that can leave it inflamed. These include, UV radiation form the sun, pollutants, pathogens and potentially even products such as cleansers.
As well as exposure to the environment, the skin is also in constant contact with its commensal bacteria, the skins microbiota. Recent studies have suggested that the skins microbiota, much like that of the gut, has an important role to play in skin health. However, the information available thus far is limited.

Previous work in the O'Neill/MacBain group has demonstrated that certain bacteria have therapeutic potential for use on skin. We have previously shown that species of lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria can protect skin from pathogens, increase the barrier function of the skin epithelium and enhance healing of skin. In this project, we will investigate the possibility that certain members of the skins microbiota may have anti-inflammatory properties and may help the skin to recover from everyday stressors. Such anti-inflammatory bacteria have been demonstrated to exist in the gut microbiota and may be one of the mechanisms underlying the effects of the so-called 'probiotic' bacteria. This project offers an opportunity to screen bacteria isolated from human volunteers (through simple swabbing of the skin) isolate individual strains and then test the efficacy of the live strains, or extracts of the strains in models of skin inflammation. In particular, we have established a human skin organ culture on which we can grow bacteria. It is envisaged that screening would constitute the first 12-18 months of the project. The remaining time would be spent understanding the mechanisms underlying the ability of bacteria to reduce inflammation in skin models.
Professors O'Neill and Macbain have collaborated in the area of host-bacterial interactions in skin and the oral cavity for several years and have track record in publication in the area (Prince et al, 2011, Mohemmedsaeed et al, 2014, 2015, Sultanna et al, 2014). This studentship offers an opportunity for the successful candidate to develop a wide variety of techniques spanning microbiology and skin biology. The training in host-microbe interactions would put the successful candidate in a unique position. Added to this, the industrial sponsor, SkinBiotherapeutics has experience in translating findings from the research laboratory into human studies and on into the marketplace. The successful candidate would spend time in the company learning how findings from the basic science are translated into new therapies. All of these experiences would put the successful candidate in a highly competitive position in the jobs market following completion of their studies.