SkinBioTherapeutics plc (LON:SBTX), a life science company focused on skin health, announced today its collaboration as industrial partner in a grant awarded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) to The University of Manchester.
The grant of approximately £600k provides the University with non-dilutive funding for up to three years to investigate how ageing affects the skin and in particular, its microbiome. In the gut, it is currently understood that certain fibres can promote the growth of beneficial bacteria (called a ‘prebiotic effect’) but research is needed to determine how this principle applies to skin health and which molecules could be prebiotic for the skins microbiome.
BBSRC awarded the grant to enable the University to carry out research which could lead to the development of novel ways to improve the health of the skin microbiome during ageing and in turn, support new approaches to prevent age-related skin conditions and promote long-term skin health. Grant applications of this nature are extremely competitive and the award is a strong external validation of the capabilities of both the University and SkinBioTherapeutics.
SkinBioTherapeutics is supporting the programme as the industrial partner to further work in this exciting new area of the skin microbiome. As industrial partner, SkinBioTherapeutics has first refusal on any IP generated by the project. The Company will be well placed to develop any relevant findings with the potential to extend its current portfolio of indications in skin health, anti-infection and repair.
Dr Catherine O’Neill, CEO of SkinBioTherapeutics Plc, commented: “We have a long-standing relationship with the University, and I am delighted this will continue through this latest collaboration. It is testament to both teams that we have been successful with such a prestigious award.
“Unlike the gut, virtually nothing is known about possible prebiotics for skin. This study will provide the foundations for developing novel prebiotic treatments for aged skin. This work is very complementary to the work that we have already underway at SkinBioTherapeutics in skin care, anti-infection and repair.”
