|
The outer layer of our skin contains a strong, but flexible membrane composed of ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids. This combination of lipids forms a physical barrier in the epidermis that helps retain moisture in the skin and prevent bacterial and viral infections. Medical researchers have discovered that the disruption of the skin's "barrier function" plays a critical role in the pathogenesis and maintenance of a wide variety of skin disorders that affects tens of millions of people.
Dr. Peter Elias, one of the world's leading dermatology researchers and Ceragenix's Chief Scientific Officer, has discovered that the topical application of a specific combination of ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids forms a human-identical skin barrier and thus provides patients with a normal skin barrier function. The restoration of a normal skin barrier has been shown to improve the clinical symptoms of itch, inflammation, irritation, and dry, cracked skin. The patented Barrier Repair Technology provides a safe and effective solution in the treatment of atopic dermatitis and other common skin disorders.
Ceragenix has licensed from the Regents of the University of California the worldwide exclusive rights to commercialize the pharmaceutical applications of the barrier repair technology and has developed 2 topical creams — Epiceram® and NeoCeram® .
Status
EpiCeram® was launched October 15, 2008 in the United States by Promius Pharma.
NeoCeram™ skin barrier technology is currently under development for use in premature infants.
Applications
Atopic Dermatitis (AD)
AD affects over 15 million Americans and is the most common childhood skin disorder. Over 65% of children who develop AD (eczema) do so by 6 months of age. AD is characterized by dry, itchy, inflamed and scaly skin. It is a chronic condition that may last years or in some cases, a lifetime.
Radiation Dermatitis
Patients often suffer radiation dermatitis as they undergo radiation treatments. This can result in an interruption in their course of radiation. The condition causes dryness and itchiness in the affected area, pain or soreness of the skin, as well as breakdown and blistering.
End Stage Renal Disease Associated Pruritus
Persons undergoing hemodialysis treatment for end-stage renal disease suffer from dry, cracked skin and moderate to severe Pruritus.
Skin Disorders of Premature Infants
Every year approximately 80,000 infants are born prematurely in the U.S. These infants lack a fully developed skin barrier, which puts them at higher risk for skin infections and divert a portion of their caloric intake to thermoregulation.
|
