Australian scientists have introduced an experimental cream that could change the way we treat old scars.
In Phase I clinical trials, SNT-6302, developed by Syntara (formerly Pharmaxis), demonstrated safety and initial signs of scar tissue remodeling in humans, reports New Voice.
Ordinary skin wounds often heal without visible marks, but deep or extensive injuries leave scars that rarely disappear completely and can limit joint mobility. Current methods, such as surgery or laser therapy, only partially improve the appearance of scars, so researchers are looking for less invasive ways to remove them.
SNT-6302 blocks lysyl oxidase enzymes, which form strong cross-links between collagen fibers in scars. Excessive activity of these enzymes promotes the formation of hard tissue, so inhibiting it may restore a healthier appearance to the skin.
A study conducted by the Fiona Stanley Hospital and the University of Western Australia involved 50 volunteers with “mature” scars—those that had stabilized and were no longer inflamed. Eight participants received the cream openly daily, while the rest were randomly assigned to the treatment or placebo groups. Participants applied the cream to their scars three times a week for three months.
Phase I was primarily designed to evaluate safety. SNT-6302 met this criterion: only mild to moderate local skin reactions were recorded; six participants discontinued use due to these reactions. Despite this, the cream showed initial signs of the expected effect—a 66% reduction in lysyl oxidase activity, decreased collagen and protein synthesis, and an increase in the density of small vessels in the scar tissue, indicating its remodeling.
The results, published in Science Translational Medicine, are still preliminary, but the scientists believe they are sufficient to proceed to larger Phase II trials. If further research confirms its effectiveness, SNT-6302 could become the first non-surgical way to significantly improve or even eliminate long-standing scars.
