ProStrakan is currently carrying out trials into the efficacy of Topical Nitric Oxide against the fungal condition Onychomycosis, a common chronic infection of the toe and fingernails.

There is great potential for an onychomycosis treatment which is safer and less expensive than currently available oral products and, at the same time, more effective than currently available topical products.

Infections by bacteria, viruses, fungi or yeasts are the underlying cause of many skin diseases and can also give rise to complications during wound care. A wide range of treatments has been developed to control such disorders, including physical and chemical methods and antimicrobial agents. Despite the widespread use of these approaches, it is generally recognised that our ability to halt the invasion, persistence and spread of skin infections remains limited.

There is, therefore, a need for an entirely different approach to the management of infection. The topical use of nitric oxide promises to provide an exciting and innovative alternative to current antibiotics and other therapies¹.

Nitric oxide is a highly reactive molecule known to be involved in many cell functions. Of particular interest is the fact that the body uses the generation of nitric oxide as a means of protecting itself against a number of pathogens and general microbial invasion². 

Indeed, clinical studies have suggested that Topical Nitric Oxide might prove extremely effective in killing or inhibiting a wide range of bacteria, viruses, fungi and yeasts associated with skin infections^3,4.

The company is currently evaluating the most appropriate way of progressing its work in this area. Options may include out-licensing the technology to a third party.

1. Weller R. et al. Antimicrobial effect of acidified nitrite on dermatophyte fungi, Candida and bacterial skin pathogens. Journal of Applied Microbiology. 2001. 90 (4): p648-p652

2. Fang F.C. et al. Perspective series: host/pathogen interactions. Mechanisms of nitric oxide-related antimicrobial activity. Journal of Clinical Investigation. 1997. 99 (12): p2818-p2825

3. Ormerod A. D. et al. Molluscum contagiosum effectively treated with a topical acidified nitrite, nitric oxide liberating cream. British Journal of Dermatology. 1999. 141 (6): p1051-p1053.

4. Weller R. et al. randomised trial of acidified nitrite cream in the treatment of tinea pedis. Journal of American Academy of Dermatology. 1998. 38 (4): p559-p563.