Battling biofilms: evaluating selected agents against Cutibacterium acnes—a review

TL;DR

This review evaluates new agents for fighting Cutibacterium acnes biofilms, which cause acne and resist antibiotics.

Contribution

The paper systematically reviews recent agents and methods for combating C. acnes biofilms, highlighting promising but under-validated treatments.

Findings

Dalbavancin reduces biofilm formation in C. acnes.

Niosomes decrease inflammation in acne lesions.

Bacteriophages, plant-based, and nanomaterial treatments show promise but need more validation.

Abstract

Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) is a causative agent in the development of acne vulgaris, and this bacteria has been reported to show resistance against conventional antibiotics. One of the vital factors contributing to antibiotic resistance is the ability of C. acnes to form biofilms. Thus, the purpose of this review is to assess the efficacy of various recent developments and to identify acceptable methods for preventing infections associated with C. acnes biofilms.

A variety of criteria considered in the selection process, such as the site of infection, the mechanism of action against biofilms, and the methodology used to evaluate antibiofilm activity, were taken into consideration when choosing the studies.

The findings of existing research on the antibiofilm potential of conventional anibiotics, natural products and novel treatment strategies against C. acnes were compiled and compared. Clinical trials demonstrated that dalbavancin reduced biofilm formation while niosomes effectively decreased inflammation in acne lesions. Some studies have shown promising results with bacteriophages, plant-based and nanomaterial treatments, but lack further validation in the way of pre-clinical and clinical trials to accurately measure treatment effectiveness.

The review examines a range of effective agents and explores their potential applications in acne management, offering valuable insights for clinicians—especially dermatologists—seeking to optimize patient care. In addition, this review provides an understanding about the different agents and their antibiofilm properties that enable researchers to develop effective therapeutic approaches against C. acnes biofilm-related infectious diseases for the benefit of human health.

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