A recent research’s pre-clinical trial in mice has shown that a natural compound derived from gut-friendly bacteria significantly slows down the progression of vitiligo and may restore pigmentation.
Recent Findings - A microbial product administered weekly to vitiligo-prone mice over an 18-week period.
By the end, pigment loss on the mice’s backs was reduced by 74%.
The product reduced killer T cells that attack the skin’s pigment and increased protective regulatory T cells, which are typically scarce in vitiligo patients.
This simple microbial compound could work as a standalone therapy or in synergy with existing treatments.
Vitiligo - Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes white patches to appear on the skin.
Symptoms - The body’s defense system begins to attack the pigment-producing cells and causes de-pigmented white patches on the skin.
It can also affect hair, eyes, and the inside of the mouth.
It is linked to other health challenges, including for some persons, higher risks of cardiovascular disease, psychological distress, and endocrine disorders.
Causes - A lack of pigment in your skin (melanin) causes vitiligo. Studies indicate that about 30% of vitiligo cases are genetic
Risk age groups - Vitiligo affects all races and sexes equally.
There are typically two peaks in persons with vitiligo in adolescence, and then, again, during the 40s and 50s.
It has been found to be more severe in people with darker skin tones, as found in the Indian population.
Naturally, the visibility of the discoloration in people with darker skin can also amplify stigma and emotional distress.
Prevalence - It is estimated that vitiligo affects 0.5% to 2% of the global population.
The prevalence of vitiligo in India has been invariably reported to be between 0.25% and 4% of dermatology outpatients and up to 8.8% in Gujarat and Rajasthan.
Vitiligo is not life-threatening or contagious.
Treatment - There isn’t a specific medication to stop vitiligo from affecting your skin but there are certain drugs that can slow the speed of pigmentation loss.
