Preliminary data from an early human trial show that an experimental skin cream, RLS-1496, was associated with a 2.1-year decrease in measured epigenetic skin age after four weeks of treatment. Rubedo Life Sciences, a biotechnology company based in Mountain View, California, released the findings this week, noting that the analysis included 11 paired skin samples from patients with atopic dermatitis and other skin conditions.
The company's chief executive officer, Dr. Frederick Beddingfield, described the results as "significant" early findings that warrant further investigation. In a statement to Fox News Digital, Beddingfield said the drug is one of the few developed for aging in general and using AI to show positive data in humans across multiple indications. He expressed belief that these early results will translate into clinical improvements with longer-term treatment, although the specific mechanisms by which the drug achieves this remain under study.
RLS-1496 is designed to target senescent cells, which are aging or damaged cells that have stopped dividing but can release substances that promote inflammation. The treatment targets a protein called GPX4, which helps cells respond to stress. Researchers are investigating whether blocking this protein can clear away damaged cells while allowing healthier cells to survive. Beddingfield characterized the approach as targeting cellular aging rather than merely treating outward effects, comparing it to the concept that "what does not kill you makes you stronger" for surviving cells.
In addition to changes in epigenetic markers, the company reported a 10% increase in a type of collagen that supports the skin. Blood tests from the trial showed lower levels of several markers linked to inflammation, though it is not yet clear what these changes mean for patients' overall health. The preliminary findings were presented at a scientific conference but have not yet been published as a full peer-reviewed study.
The study has notable limitations. The skin-aging analysis included only 11 paired samples and measured biological signs of aging rather than whether the skin actually looked younger or functioned better. Because treatment lasted only four weeks, it is unknown whether the observed changes will persist. The studies were sponsored by Rubedo, and Beddingfield stated that the next trial will treat patients for several months.
Rubedo is also testing RLS-1496 for other skin issues. In a separate early-stage study of 22 patients with actinic keratosis, rough precancerous patches caused by sun exposure, the company reported a 49% average reduction in lesions after 28 days of treatment. This open-label study compared treated forearms with untreated forearms rather than using a placebo cream. The company noted that the cream caused minimal skin irritation and that the drug was detected in the blood of very few participants.
Beddingfield said that with topical application, they have seen very little risk, noting that local irritation is rarely seen and generally mild when it occurs. He added that no one has discontinued treatment to date and that very few subjects show any drug in their blood after skin application. Rubedo has started an initial phase of testing for pattern hair loss, while Beddingfield projects that regulatory clearance could be three to four years off, subject to larger clinical trials.