Randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled cosmetic trial of a topical first‐in‐class Neutraligand targeting the chemokine TARC/CCL17 in mild‐to‐moderate atopic dermatitis

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundAtopic dermatitis has a marked economic impact and affects the quality of life. A cosmetic compound with an innovative strategy is proposed here as a small chemical neutraligand, GPN279 (previously identified as a theophylline derivative), that binds and potently neutralizes the TARC/CCL17 chemokine, activating the Th2 cell‐expressed CCR4 receptor.ObjectiveOur objective was to evaluate the safety and activity of topically applied GPN279 in mild‐to‐moderate atopic dermatitis patients in a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel group trial. Such cosmetic active ingredient targeting dry skin with an atopic tendency would open a parallel strategy to the pharmaceutical approach, in particular for mild to moderate subjects, as an alternative to reduce the evolution towards severe forms of atopy.MethodsThis 4‐week trial included adults with mild‐to‐moderate atopic dermatitis, according to the SCORAD index. Patients were randomized into two groups treated by topical applications of either an emulsion containing 0.44% GPN279 in placebo on skin lesions or the placebo (4.56% glycerin). Clinical activity was evaluated with the SCORAD as the primary objective. As secondary objectives, POEM, erythema, skin moisturization, its barrier function (TEWL) and safety were evaluated.ResultsTwenty‐one patients in each group completed the study. SCORAD was significantly improved in the GPN279 group vs. placebo. GPN279 also significantly improved POEM, induced a rapid and significant decrease of erythema, and improved skin moisture. GPN279 and placebo were well tolerated throughout the study.ConclusionA cosmetic cream comprising the CCL17 neutraligand GPN279 improved the skin barrier and physiology criteria in patients with mild‐to‐moderate atopic dermatitis.