Development of a prototype formula for a next-generation cosmetic with regenerative, immunomodulatory, and antibacterial properties (ImmunoCosmetic)
The Challenge
Atopic dermatitis (AD) affects a significant number of people worldwide – up to 20% of children and 2-10% of adults. In Poland, about 0.6-1.1 million people suffer from it. Currently offered remedies, such as corticosteroids or immunosuppresants, may pose significant health risks for patients, including cancer and being more prone to infections. The ImmunoComsetic project, funded by the National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR), aims to develop an innovative cosmetic product intended for skin affected by atopic dermatitis. The formulation is designed to provide soothing, regenerative, and immunomodulatory support, with the goal of reducing discomfort and helping to decrease the need for more intensive therapeutic interventions.
Our Approach
The cosmetic developed by the research team will include lactoferrin (LTF) and its peptides, which work together to promote wound healing, and provide antibacterial & soothing properties. LTF and its peptides are key ingredients, which have been discovered to be specifically useful in treating atopic skin. Moreover, LTF will be utilised with lecthins, which will stabilise the formula and help in penetrating the skin barrier to increase the effectiveness of the cosmetics. These ingredients are naturally sourced, promoting both ecological consumption and sustainable development of cosmetics. The project will also utilise novel models and technologies, such as 3D skin models used for testing the formulas, which foregoes animal testing.
Expected Impact
The cosmetic developed by the research team will include lactoferrin (LTF) and its peptides, which work together to promote wound healing, and provide antibacterial & soothing properties. LTF and its peptides are key ingredients, which have been discovered to be specifically useful in treating atopic skin. Moreover, LTF will be utilised with lecthins, which will stabilise the formula and help in penetrating the skin barrier to increase the effectiveness of the cosmetics. These ingredients are naturally sourced, promoting both ecological consumption and sustainable development of cosmetics. The project will also utilise novel models and technologies, such as 3D skin models used for testing the formulas, which foregoes animal testing.
Project Leader
Bio:
Oleksandra Pryshchepa is an experienced researcher, holding a PhD from Nicolaus Copernicus University in Exact and Natural Sciences. Her PhD thesis focused on investigating molecular mechanisms of metal-protein binding, contributing to a deeper understanding of bioinorganic interactions. Moreover, Oleksandra holds dual Master’s degrees in chemistry from the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla and Cosmetic Chemistry from the NCU. Dr. Pryshchepa’s academic foundation allows her to bridge applied biochemistry with academic research, as well as pharmaceuticals.
Having been involved in numerous research projects, Oleksandra has developed strong expertise in proteomic studies, including MALDI-TOF MS, gel electrophoresis, and chromatography, as well as microbiological analyses, including PCR and sequencing.