At Sechenov University, within the Department of Skin and Venereal Diseases, in collaboration with the Institute of Pharmacy, a new cream based on carnosine has been developed. Carnosine is a domestically produced antioxidant first explored for the treatment of vitiligo. The breakthrough was announced in conversations with socialbites.ca at the First Moscow State Medical University named after M. V. Sechenov. This innovative formulation marks a notable step in regulating oxidative stress associated with vitiligo and represents a homegrown approach to supportive skin therapy.
The primary aim of the cream is to slow the progression of the disease by offering protection against the appearance of new vitiligo patches. It is designed to complement existing treatment options and to help manage lesion growth as part of a broader care plan. Vitiligo is characterized by the development of colorless, milky-white patches that can appear on various parts of the body. While the condition is not considered dangerous to overall health, the visible lesions can pose challenges to self-image and psychological well-being. In Russia, vitiligo affects a notable portion of the population, with estimates suggesting about four percent of individuals experiencing some degree of the condition.
Experts note that oxidative processes in the skin play a significant role in vitiligo, and that imported antioxidant therapies often come with substantial costs. The development of a domestic carnosine-based option aims to provide a cost-effective alternative while addressing oxidative stress at the site of skin cells. As explained by Konstantin Lomonosov, a professor in the Department of Skin and Venereal Diseases at Sechenov University, the team is moving forward with preclinical studies to assess safety, dosing, and potential efficacy in real-world patient scenarios. This work aligns with a growing interest in leveraging locally produced compounds to support dermatological care and reduce reliance on imported products.
The treatment landscape for vitiligo is diverse and typically involves a combination of topical agents, oral medications, injections, and various physically modality-based therapies. The choice of treatment is highly individualized, taking into account factors such as a patient’s age, the presence of other health conditions, how long the disease has been present, the extent of skin involvement, and the rate at which patches expand. Clinicians often combine interventions to optimize pigment reappearance, attempt to stabilize progression, and minimize adverse effects. The pursuit of a treatment plan tailored to each person remains a central principle in contemporary vitiligo management, with ongoing research exploring how to achieve consistent, durable results across different patient groups.
Looking ahead, Sechenov University is exploring new avenues in vitiligo therapy that integrate cellular technologies into established treatment regimens. The goal of these efforts is to deliver more pronounced and longer-lasting benefits for patients who do not respond adequately to conventional therapies. By combining advances in cell biology with proven dermatological strategies, researchers aim to expand options for individuals facing resistant forms of vitiligo. This direction reflects a broader movement toward regenerative and personalized medicine in skin care, where therapies are increasingly designed to address the underlying biology of the condition rather than merely managing symptoms.