Breakthrough in acne research

Researchers at QIMR Berghofer have made a major advance in understanding acne, the world’s most common skin condition.

In the largest genetic study of acne ever conducted, Dr Brittany Mitchell and Associate Professor Miguel Renteria, working with data from QIMR Berghofer and 13 international cohorts, identified 29 new genes that increase the risk of developing acne.

These discoveries shed light on the biological pathways driving acne and bring scientists closer to developing targeted treatments, particularly for people with severe or treatment-resistant forms of the condition.

Unexpected Genetic Links

The study also uncovered a genetic connection between acne and hormone-related cancers, including breast and prostate cancer. For the first time, researchers showed that severe acne and these cancers share common genetic causes—an important finding that may help doctors identify individuals who could benefit from earlier monitoring.

This builds on earlier research showing that people with severe acne have a higher likelihood of developing certain cancers later in life.

Building on earlier research, Dr Mitchell is now leading an even larger study to explore:

• How genetic risk for acne differs between men and women
• How these differences influence acne at various life stages

These insights open the door to personalised approaches to treatment and prevention.