The Acne Research Study

Currently Recruiting

28 May 2026

Up to $4,150

Melbourne, Australia

The study drug is designed to help treat acne, which is a very common skin problem, especially for teenagers and young adults. Acne happens for several reasons, like oily skin (sebum), clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation.

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Join our clinical trial

The study drug is designed to help treat acne, which is a very common skin problem, especially for teenagers and young adults. Acne happens for several reasons, like oily skin (sebum), clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation. 

This drug works by targeting and blocking an enzyme called fatty acid synthase (FASN). This enzyme (FASN) helps make fatty acids, which are a big part of the oil your skin produces. By blocking FASN, the study drug aims to reduce the amount of oil your skin makes, which could also help lower inflammation and other things that cause acne. 

Current acne treatments like antibiotics and hormonal therapies can work, but they often come with serious drawbacks. Antibiotics can lead to resistance and are usually only for short-term use. Hormonal treatments aren’t suitable for everyone and can have side effects. Other medications are very effective but can carry significant risks, like liver issues, and require strict monitoring. Because of these limitations, many patients either can’t use these treatments or don’t get the results they need. 

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Why participate?

There’s a clear need for a new option that works well, is safe for long-term use, and doesn’t have the same restrictions. That’s why the study drug is being developed, to fill this gap and offer a better alternative for people struggling with acne. 

Before joining, you’ll receive detailed information about the study, meet with a doctor, and have the chance to ask any questions.

Trial details

Study medication

Administered via oral capsule.

Ethics

This is a first-in-human (FIH) study, meaning it is the first time the potential treatment is being tested in people. The study has been carefully designed with strict safety protocols and has been approved by an independent ethics committee.  

Additional eligibility

  • No significant medical history 
  • Non-smokers or smoking less than 5 cigarettes per week.  
  • Not pregnant or breastfeeding   
  • Willing to follow contraception guidelines (If applicable)  
  • Willing and able to attend all study visits and follow instructions   

Study duration

2 screening visits, 4-night in-clinic stay, 2 follow-up visits and 4 eye exams

Are you a match?

Age

18 - 55 years old

Remuneration

Up to $4,150 *with screening reimbursement.
Full details outlined in consent form.

Gender

Male or Female (Post-menopausal)

BMI

BMI 18 - 32 kg/m2

Commitment

4 nights, 5 clinic visits

Medical condition

Not taking any medications

Register your interest

This form takes around 3–5 minutes to complete. Your information will remain confidential and is used only to assess your eligibility for current or future research studies.
Step 1 of 3
Contact Information




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Nucleus Network does not currently conduct clinical trials in your state. If you would like to receive study information should this situation change, please complete and submit this form.
Personal Information

This includes registering your interest with the Centre for Clinical Studies, Q-Pharm or Nucleus Network

Please call us on 1800 243 733


What is your date of birth?
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You need to be at least 18 years old to participate in clinical trials.


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Step 2 of 3
Medical History

We regularly have studies that allow participants who are (social) smokers.

We define an allergy as severe if symptoms include mouth/throat/face swelling, shortness of breath or a whole-body rash, or if it required hospitalisation

We regularly have studies that allow for/require participants with asthma.



We regularly have studies that allow for/require participants with medical conditions.

Medications & Contraception Requirements

We regularly have studies that allow participants with depression that is well-managed on a stable dose of medication.

If the only prescription medication you currently use is hormonal contraception and/or Ventolin, please select No above. We regularly have studies that allow for participants who take a stable dose of prescription medication.


  • Abstinence from sex with anyone of the opposite sex for at least 2 months
  • Using a condom + your female sexual partner(s) using a separate form of birth control
  • You or your sexual partner(s) had a vasectomy/hysterectomy
  • Your sexual partner(s) are post-menopausal


Only you taking birth control or your partner(s) using a condom is not an acceptable option, but using both together is. The morning after pill is not an acceptable form of birth control.

  • Abstinence, by choice, from sex with anyone of the opposite sex for the last 2 months + remaining abstinent for at least 2 months after study participation
  • You using birth control + your male sexual partner(s) using a condom
  • You or your sexual partner(s) had a hysterectomy/vasectomy
  • You are post-menopausal



Step 3 of 3
Study Preferences

While longer studies generally have a higher reimbursement, there are also studies with multiple short stays that have high reimbursements.
Referral Information



Consent to Information Use and Future Contact