Singapore will be among the first locations globally to host clinical trials for a pioneering acne vaccine developed by Sanofi. The French pharmaceutical company has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Singapore's Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*Star) and the National Skin Centre (NSC) to conduct research and early-stage clinical trials of the vaccine.
The clinical trial, scheduled to commence in 2025, will recruit around 200 individuals with mild acne. Parallel to this, a trial focusing on individuals with severe acne is already in progress in the United States. The vaccine is designed to mitigate the severity of acne, a widespread skin condition affecting approximately 80% of teenagers, and potentially offer a curative solution.
Beyond the clinical trial, Sanofi and AStar will collaborate on research initiatives targeting various skin conditions. Professor Tan Chorh Chuan, chairman of both AStar and the Ministry of Health’s Office for Healthcare Transformation, emphasized Singapore's unique position to spearhead research in Asian-specific skin conditions due to its diverse, multiracial population. He stated, “Singapore is uniquely positioned, we think, to lead research in Asian specific skin conditions because of our diverse, multiracial population. So this generally allows us to generate insights and make discoveries that are relevant to our region, but also contribute to global understanding of skin health.”
Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by clogged skin pores due to sebum and dead skin cells. It commonly affects individuals aged 10 to 24, but can persist into adulthood. At the NSC, acne is the second most frequently treated condition, following eczema. The condition can result in scarring, diminished self-esteem, and depression. Dr. Hazel Oon, who leads the NSC’s Acne Clinic, highlighted the emotional distress caused by acne, noting that it is not only disfiguring but can also be painful and lead to lesions in uncomfortable areas.
