Chinese scientists advance new approach to treating inflammatory skin conditions

A Chinese-developed acne vaccine has entered domestic clinical trials for the first time, representing a significant national milestone in the treatment of one of the most widespread skin conditions worldwide.

Developed by WestVac BioPharma, the vaccine began clinical trials on December 30 at West China Hospital of Sichuan University, following regulatory approval granted in November, according to Chinese media reports.

The treatment, which is based on recombinant protein technology, is designed as a therapeutic rather than a preventive vaccine. Its goal is to reduce acne by activating the immune system to generate antibodies against Cutibacterium acnes — a naturally occurring skin bacterium that can cause inflammation when it multiplies excessively.

Researchers note that this strategy reflects a broader move toward immune-based acne therapies, as traditional treatments — including antibiotics, hormonal medications, and vitamin A derivatives — face challenges such as drug resistance, side effects, and high rates of recurrence.

While this marks a first-of-its-kind development in China, several acne vaccines are also being already explored internationally. A French pharmaceutical company, Sanofi, launched clinical trials of an mRNA-based acne vaccine in July 2025. Meanwhile, a team of US researchers published findings last December in the scientific journal Nature Communications on an enzyme-based acne vaccine they developed, which has not yet entered clinical trials.

West China Hospital of Sichuan University emphasized that the Chinese vaccine is not “intended for universal use.” Instead, it is primarily targeted at patients who do not respond well to standard therapies or who experience frequent relapses.

Li Jiong, the project’s lead researcher at West China Hospital of Sichuan University, told domestic media that variations in antibody levels, immune response strength, and the duration of effectiveness among different patient groups will need to be carefully assessed throughout the clinical trial process.

Acne is the eighth most common skin disease globally. Research indicates that more than 85% of adolescents experience acne, which develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This environment allows normally harmless skin bacteria to multiply, leading to inflammation characterized by swelling, redness, heat, and pain.

Depending on severity, the condition often results in visible pimples on areas such as the face, back, chest, and shoulders. Because acne is highly visible, it has been associated with increased risks of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation, particularly among teenagers.

By Nazrin Sadigova