Microbiome science for healthier skin
Lutèo Medical is developing a new generation of dermatology solutions inspired by the natural biology of the human microbiome
Our work focuses on understanding the relationship between the microbiome, the skin and inflammation, then translating that science into practical solutions for people living with chronic inflammatory skin conditions.
Chronic skin conditions need a different approach
Inflammatory skin conditions can have a significant impact on everyday life. For many people, symptoms such as itching, pain and recurring flare-ups affect sleep, confidence, work, education and social life.
Existing treatments can provide important relief, but many are designed to manage symptoms once a flare has already begun. Recurrence remains a challenge for people living with long-term skin conditions.
Lutèo Medical is exploring how microbiome science could support a more targeted and preventative approach to skin health.
Why the microbiome matters
The human microbiome is the community of microorganisms that naturally live in and on our bodies. These microorganisms play an important role in maintaining healthy skin, supporting its protective barrier and interacting with the immune system.
When the balance of the microbiome changes, it can affect the way the skin functions and contribute to inflammation.
Research is giving us a better understanding of these relationships and creating new opportunities to use the microbiome’s own natural mechanisms to keep skin disease free and tackling specific problems, supporting healthier skin.
Turning microbiome discoveries into solutions
Founded in 2025 from research at The University of Manchester, Lutèo Medical is building a portfolio of technologies targeting chronic inflammatory skin conditions.
Our approach begins by studying the natural mechanisms found within healthy microbiomes. We then explore how those discoveries can be developed into targeted products designed to address specific biological processes associated with skin disease.
Our ambition is to create accessible, evidence-led solutions that will help change the way chronic skin conditions are managed.
Science-led
Built on microbiome research and a detailed understanding of host-microbiome interactions.
Targeted
Developing approaches targeting specific mechanisms involved in inflammatory skin disease.
Practical
Translating research into products that fit into everyday healthcare.
Our programmes
Lutèo Medical is developing a portfolio of microbiome-based programmes addressing a range of inflammatory skin conditions.
LUT101 is Lutèo Medical’s lead programme, developing a novel microbiome-derived approach to preventing eczema flare-ups.
Research highlights the important role of Staphylococcus aureus in eczema, with elevated levels linked to increased inflammation, skin barrier dysfunction, and disease exacerbation. LUT101 is designed to address this microbial driver using a technology derived from the healthy skin microbiome.
The programme is currently advancing through preclinical development and regulatory planning.
Building a broader microbiome platform
Lutèo Medical is exploring further microbiome-based programmes focused on psoriasis, acne, rosacea and inflammageing. These programmes are exploring the relationship between the gut, skin and microbiome, with the aim of identifying indication-specific approaches tackle the everyday symptoms people experience with inflammatory skin diseases.
A different perspective on dermatology
Lutèo brings together microbiome research, dermatology expertise and commercial experience to explore new ways of addressing chronic inflammatory skin conditions.
Rather than simply treating symptoms after they appear, our programmes are being developed around a deeper understanding of the biological processes involved in disease recurrence.
By building a broader microbiome platform rather than focusing on a single product, we aim to create opportunities across several areas of skin health through multiple routes to market.
About Lutèo Medical
Lutèo Medical was founded in 2025 from pioneering microbiome research at The University of Manchester.
The company brings together expertise in microbiome science, translational dermatology, product development and healthcare commercialisation, with a shared goal of turning scientific discoveries into meaningful solutions for skin health.
Our team combines experience in academic research with the practical knowledge required to translate innovation from the laboratory towards real-world use.
Prof Cath O’Neill
Co-Founder
Cath is a recognised microbiome expert and Professor of Translational Dermatology at The University of Manchester. She previously co-founded SkinBioTherapeutics plc, serving as CEO and leading the company through its AIM listing, and also founded dermatology business Curapel Ltd.
Dr Abigail Elias
Co-Founder
Abigail led the discovery and validation of Lutèo’s eczema technology. Her research focuses on interactions between the microbiome and the human body, particularly the role of the skin microbiome in inflammation. She brings practical experience in skin models, research collaborations and the coordination of human studies.
Dr Stephen France
Business Development Lead
Stephen has extensive experience in healthcare business creation, investment, licensing and commercial partnerships across consumer health, diagnostics, medical devices and therapeutics. He has worked with Lutèo’s founders over many years, including through previous roles with Curapel and SkinBioTherapeutics.
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Working Together
Developing new healthcare solutions requires collaboration across science, clinical research, product development and commercialisation.
Lutèo Medical is interested in building relationships with organisations working across dermatology, consumer health, research, manufacturing and product development.
If you would like to discuss working with Lutèo, we would be pleased to hear from you.