Deep Dive In Vitiligo

Pharma, Startups, and AI: From 2024 to 2025 (Ep. 17)

In the 17th episode of Deep Dive in Vitiligo, we wrap up the year with a thoughtful analysis of the vitiligo drug development landscape, exploring the breakthroughs, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of care. From pharmaceutical giants to AI-driven startups, we delve into the science, strategies, and collaborations pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
The Titans of Treatment 
Leading the charge is Incyte with Opzelura, the first FDA-approved topical treatment, alongside Pfizer, advancing its oral drug Litfulo through Phase 3 trials. These major players are setting new benchmarks in targeted therapies, but as the field grows, questions remain about accessibility, affordability, and long-term efficacy.
Innovation and Collaboration 
Smaller players are also making waves. One standout is Skinopathy, a Canadian company innovating in AI-driven care. In collaboration with the VRF, Skinopathy is working to develop a comprehensive AI-care system for vitiligo—combining diagnostics, treatment tracking, and patient management tools. This partnership demonstrates how AI, when guided by robust expertise, has the potential to empower patients and enhance care.
The Market at a Glance
The vitiligo treatment market is projected to grow to $822.75 million by 2028, driven by increasing awareness, rising prevalence, and substantial R&D investment. Yet, this growth isn’t without challenges, from regulatory hurdles to ensuring equitable access.
A Multifaceted Approach
We explore a wide array of players and their approaches:
Amgen and its IL-15 signaling blocker AMG 714 
Merck, leveraging its acquisition of Pandion Therapeutics for regulatory T cell expansion with MK-6194 
AbbVie, investigating small molecule inhibitors for immune-mediated diseases
Vyne Therapeutics and its novel BET inhibitor VYN201 
Ahammune Biosciences, advancing AB1001, targeting T cell activation to halt vitiligo’s spread.
Why It Matters 
At the intersection of science, technology, and patient care lies a vital question: How do we ensure that these advancements translate into meaningful outcomes for those living with vitiligo? This episode highlights the importance of balancing innovation with accessibility and the role of collaboration in creating solutions that serve patients, providers, and the broader community.
Tune in as we explore the future of vitiligo treatments and the transformative potential of science and technology working together.
Listen now, and be part of the conversation shaping the next chapter in vitiligo care.
Key moments
- [00:00:00] Welcome and Introduction: Setting the stage for an in-depth dive into vitiligo drug development. - [00:00:42] Market Outlook: Vitiligo treatment market poised to reach $2 billion by 2026. - [00:01:09] Industry Leaders: Incyte and their FDA-approved drug Opzelura—what sets it apart. - [00:05:12] Pfizer's Competitive Edge: Lituflo’s oral formulation and its game-changing potential. - [00:10:27] Innovation Highlights: Amgen's AMG 714, targeting IL-15 for immune system regulation. - [00:15:33] Inclusivity in Focus: Clinuvel’s unique approach for patients with darker skin tones. - [00:18:40] Futuristic Therapies: Temprion Therapeutics and DNA-based whole-body repigmentation. - [00:23:19] Beyond Drugs: Skinopathy’s AI-powered diagnostics transforming vitiligo care. - [00:27:08] Emotional Impact: Vitiligo's effects on self-esteem and the importance of patient advocacy. - [00:30:00] Risks and Trade-offs: Navigating long-term concerns and immune suppression challenges. - [00:35:12] Looking Ahead: Personalized medicine, AI, and a collaborative ecosystem driving hope.
Suggested reading:
Vitiligo Drug Pipeline Analysis and Market Insights
The Real Price Tag of Treating Vitiligo: What You Need to Know
 

Mind, Body, and Ayahuasca: An Uncharted Approach to Vitiligo (Ep. 16)

In this podcast episode Mind, Body, and Ayahuasca: An Uncharted Approach to Vitiligo, we venture into the intersection of ancient Amazonian medicine and modern science to explore innovative avenues for vitiligo treatment.
Vitiligo, an autoimmune condition leading to skin depigmentation, presents both physical and psychological challenges. Traditional treatments often focus solely on the physical aspects, potentially overlooking the emotional and mental health components. This episode examines how ayahuasca—a traditional Amazonian brew known for its psychoactive properties—might offer a holistic approach to managing vitiligo by addressing both mind and body.
Key Discussion Points
Ayahuasca's Role in Immune Modulation: We delve into research suggesting that ayahuasca's neurochemical effects could influence immune system behavior, potentially correcting the autoimmune response responsible for vitiligo.
Psychological Healing and Stress Reduction: The episode explores how ayahuasca's impact on the brain's default mode network may alleviate stress and improve emotional resilience, factors that are crucial for individuals coping with vitiligo.
Cultural and Traditional Insights: We discuss the ceremonial use of ayahuasca in indigenous Amazonian cultures, emphasizing the importance of set, setting, and guidance in the therapeutic experience.
By integrating perspectives from evolutionary psychology, immunology, and ethnobotany, this episode offers a comprehensive look at how ayahuasca could serve as a complementary therapy for vitiligo.
Tune in if you’re ready to face the unknown, question your assumptions, and consider the profound implications of these powerful compounds on both personal and universal scales.
Suggested reading
Ayahuasca as a Potential Therapy for Vitiligo. A Journey into the Mind-Body Connection
Diet, Microbiome, and Vitiligo: Unveiling the Mystery
Vitiligo's Unexpected Health Benefits: A New Perspective on an Old Condition
Disclaimer: The discussion on ayahuasca explores cultural practices, scientific research, and potential therapeutic approaches but does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Ayahuasca is a psychoactive substance that is subject to legal restrictions in many countries. Its use can carry risks, and we do not endorse or promote its use where it may violate local laws. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional and ensure compliance with local regulations before considering any treatments or alternative therapies.

Inside Pharma: How AI and Patient Advocacy Are Shaping the Future of Drug Development (Ep. 15)

In this episode, we uncover the strategies and innovations behind recent pharmaceutical breakthroughs. Despite intense competition and the shifting landscape of Medicare Part D, Incyte continues to lead with strategic maneuvers and a patient-centered approach. We’ll delve deeper into Opzelura, an FDA-approved treatment for AD and vitiligo, shedding light on the financial and emotional burdens of these conditions and the high stakes of drug development.
Explore the future of pharmaceuticals as we discuss how model-informed drug development (MIDD), powered by AI and predictive simulations, is transforming the testing process, making it faster and safer. We also highlight the role of patient advocacy groups in shaping the drug pricing landscape, ensuring real-world voices are heard in industry decisions. This episode provides a deep dive into the business, science, and human impact of modern pharmaceuticals, offering a fresh perspective on the challenges and promises that lie ahead.
OVERVIEW
(0:00:00) - The World of PharmaceuticalsIn this segment, we dive into Incyte's success with Jakafi, exploring how they’ve navigated competition and Medicare changes to reach over a billion in quarterly revenue. We also look at their latest product, Opzelura, and discuss the profound emotional and financial tolls of conditions like vitiligo, eczema and atopic dermatitis.
(0:08:47) - Innovations in Drug Development and Patient AdvocacyHere, we explore the potential of AI-driven model-informed drug development (MIDD) to revolutionize drug testing. We also highlight the role of patient advocacy groups in shaping the drug pricing landscape, ensuring real-world voices are heard in industry decisions
 

Vitiligo and Pregnancy: The Complex Connection (Ep. 14)

How does pregnancy affect vitiligo, and can vitiligo influence pregnancy outcomes? This episode unpacks the intricate relationship between the two, exploring research on how hormonal changes—particularly cortisol and IL-10—can stabilize or worsen vitiligo symptoms.
We also address concerns about potential pregnancy risks, including an increased likelihood of complications, while highlighting preconception treatments that could help manage these challenges.
Beyond the science, we delve into the emotional journey of navigating pregnancy with vitiligo. In a world that often enforces rigid beauty standards, we discuss the importance of embracing individuality, redefining beauty, and building a supportive community.
This episode offers a balance of insightful research and uplifting perspectives to empower and encourage listeners on this unique path.

Beyond the Waitlist: Skinopathy and VRF are Improving Skin Care (Ep. 13)

Did you know the average wait time to see a dermatologist in Ontario, Canada, is over 180 days? And in northern regions, it can stretch up to two years! The call for innovation has never been louder—and AI is stepping up in a big way.
In this episode, VRF teams up with Skinopathy to tackle some big dermatology pain points—endless wait times, questionable diagnoses, and a general lack of access. The fix? AI-driven solutions that bring faster skin cancer detection, personalized vitiligo care, and a multilingual AI guide so handy it’s like carrying a dermatologist around in your pocket. 
These innovations were also spotlighted at the 2024 World Vitiligo Day, adding extra credibility to the conversation. It’s a smart, down-to-earth look at how science and tech are making skin care accessible for everyone.
Got skin? Then hit play—you’ll thank me later.

Regular Exercise as an Add-On to Vitiligo Therapy (Ep. 12)

Could regular exercise be the key to managing vitiligo? In this episode, we explore the surprising connection between fitness and this complex autoimmune condition, shedding light on how lifestyle changes may play a pivotal role in treatment.
We dive into the science of vitiligo, examining genetics, oxidative stress, and immune dysfunction, while highlighting exciting new research on exercise as a therapeutic tool:
Oxidative Stress Reduction: Vitiligo patients often struggle with high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), damaging melanocytes. Exercise can enhance the body’s natural antioxidant defenses, lower ROS levels, and improve mitochondrial health.
Immune Modulation: Exercise’s anti-inflammatory effects can balance the immune system, potentially reducing melanocyte attacks.
Mitochondrial Function: Improved mitochondrial efficiency through exercise can help repair the defective energy systems linked to vitiligo progression.
Through vivid analogies like “cells swimming in rusty water,” we explain how oxidative stress damages skin cells and why exercise, despite generating initial free radicals, strengthens the body over time.
We also discuss the link between vitiligo and metabolic syndrome, urging a shift towards lifestyle interventions for autoimmune conditions. Whether vitiligo is part of your story or you’re curious about the broader benefits of exercise, this episode reveals how fitness can transform health and resilience.
Suggested reading:
Surprising Link Between Exercise and Vitiligo Management

How and Why Gen Z Engages with Online Information

Medical Data in the Age of AI: Should You Trust Grok with Your Health Scans? (Ep. 11)

In this episode, we dive into Elon Musk’s recent call for X users to submit their medical scans—X-rays, PET scans, MRIs, and more—to his new AI chatbot, Grok, to help improve its accuracy.
Musk claims Grok’s capabilities are already impressive and will only get better with user data. But is it safe to share your health data with a public AI system?
Join us as we explore the concerns raised by experts about privacy, data security, and the potential biases that could result from an unsystematic data collection approach.
We discuss why xAI’s own privacy policy discourages sharing personal information and unpack the risks, including the inadvertent exposure of sensitive details.
With AI advancing rapidly, how do we navigate the line between innovation and privacy? Tune in to find out.

Why and How To Start Vitiligo Support Group? (Ep. 10)

Growing up, I watched my cousin’s silent struggle with vitiligo—a journey that took a turn for the better when she found a supportive community. This episode shines a light on the life-changing impact of vitiligo support groups, where connection and empathy offer far more than just a listening ear.
Through inspiring personal stories, like that of a young woman who rekindled her passion for dance with the encouragement of her support group, we delve into how these communities foster resilience, confidence, and a deep sense of belonging.
Join us as we explore the profound psychological effects of vitiligo, the powerful “protective effect” support groups provide, and the healing these communities extend to both individuals and their families. Whether it’s older kids mentoring younger ones or parents finding solace in shared experiences, the dual support approach is invaluable.
For those inspired to build their own community, we also share a practical guide on creating support circles that empower and connect. Tune in for an uplifting conversation that reveals how shared experiences transform isolation into a sanctuary of understanding and hope.
Suggested reading:
How To Start A Vitiligo Support Group: A Step-by-Step Guide

Navigating Vitiligo Patient Journey Map (Ep. 9)

Navigating vitiligo can feel like trying to find your way through the New York City subway on a Friday eve. But just like any journey, it’s all about finding the right path for you.
In this episode of Deep Dive, we invite you to explore the many-layered experiences of living with vitiligo, discussing both the emotional and logistical challenges. We’ll draw from the Vitiligo Research Foundation’s comprehensive Vitiligo Patient Journey Map, using a subway-style metaphor to illustrate the different routes one can take—whether through repigmentation treatments or embracing self-acceptance.
Throughout this episode, we celebrate empowering stories of individuals who have embraced their vitiligo, discovering unexpected beauty in the process. There’s no single “right way” to manage this condition, and we highlight the importance of finding what resonates with you—both physically and emotionally.
We’ll also talk about the resources and support systems that create a sense of community and resilience among millions worldwide. This episode is an open invitation to explore your unique path, encouraging self-discovery, growth, and perhaps the courage to share your story with others navigating similar journeys.