Low-glycemic-load and milk-free diet's effect on acne severity to be assessed via mTORC pathway

Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin condition affecting millions, often leading to significant psychosocial distress. Current treatments range from topical retinoids and antibiotics to oral isotretinoin, but these can have side effects and may not address underlying dietary triggers. Emerging research suggests a strong link between diet, particularly high glycemic load foods and dairy, and acne pathogenesis, potentially mediated through insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling pathway. Dysregulation of mTORC1 is implicated in increased sebum production, keratinocyte proliferation, and inflammation, making it a key target for dietary interventions.

This proposed clinical study aims to evaluate the impact of a low-glycemic-load and milk-free diet on acne severity. Researchers plan to enroll an estimated 9 participants, dividing them into two groups: an intervention group adhering to the specified diet and a control group. The primary endpoint will be changes in acne severity. Secondary endpoints include the assessment of IGF-1 and a phosphorylated product of the mTORC pathway (p70S6K) in both groups, likely via blood sampling and ELISA or Western blot to explore the mechanistic link.