Scientists have identified pantethine, a readily available derivative of vitamin B5, as a potential treatment for psoriasis after it demonstrated the ability to calm overactive immune cells. In laboratory studies, the supplement prevented the onset of psoriasis in mice, while a small human trial produced promising preliminary results. The findings, reported in the science category, suggest an unexpected biological link between cholesterol metabolism and autoimmune inflammation, offering a possible new pathway for managing the chronic skin condition.
Researchers caution that the human trial was limited in scale and that further clinical investigation is required before pantethine can be recommended as a therapy. Psoriasis, which affects millions worldwide, is currently managed through topical treatments, phototherapy and systemic medications, but not all patients respond adequately. The discovery that a widely accessible supplement may modulate immune activity has drawn interest from dermatology researchers, though scientists stress that patients should not self-medicate without medical guidance. Independent experts noted the results warrant larger, controlled trials to confirm both efficacy and long-term safety.
Independent reporting synthesized from primary wires and global correspondents.