Scientists discover new virus that combats acne problems

Scientists at University of Pittsburgh and UCLA have discovered a harmless virus living on human skin that goes after and eliminates the bacteria causing pimples, which could make it a new weapon against acne problems.

According to the researchers, nearly 90% of Americans are affected by acne at some point in their lives.

Dermatologists have been using anti-acne tools, such as benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics and Accutane, from decades to treat the problem.

The scientists studied two tiny microbes called as Propionibacterium acnes, a bacterium living in human skin pores that can trigger acne, and P. acnes phages, a family of viruses that live on human skin.

By using over-the-counter pore-cleansing strips, the scientists lifted acne bacteria and the P. acnes phages from the noses of both pimply and clear-skinned volunteers, according to UCLA.

The scientists said these viruses, which are harmless to humans, are programmed to infect and kill the P. acnes bacteria.

The scientists said exploiting a virus that naturally preys on the pimples causing bacteria could offer a promising new implement against the physical and emotional scars of severe acne.

University of Pittsburgh and a Howard Hughes Medical Institute researcher and study author Graham Hatfull said the new findings could provide valuable insights into acne and the bacterium that causes it.

"The lack of genetic diversity among the viruses that attack the acne bacterium implies that viral-based strategies may help control this distressing skin disorder," Hatfull added.

The research team is planning to zero in on the active protein from the P. acnes virus and test whether it is as potent as the whole virus in decimating acne bacteria.

Scientists said if laboratory testing proves successful, the study could help find a safe and effective way of combating acne in people.