Abstract
A transparent nanocellulose-based topical film that actively binds environmental allergens, protecting sensitive skin and preventing flare-ups in atopic-prone individuals.
Background & Unmet Need
Atopic Dermatitis (AD) affects ~20% of children and ~3% of adults and is driven by epidermal barrier dysfunction and allergen penetration. Current skincare solutions moisturize but do not actively neutralize allergens. There is no cosmetic product that binds allergens before inflammation begins.
Our Innovation
- A water-based nanocellulose formulation forming a transparent, breathable film that actively binds CBM-containing allergens upon contact — creating an Active Allergen Shield rather than a passive barrier.
Cosmetic & Functional Advantages
• Active allergen binding (~90% binding efficiency in optimized conditions)
• Transparent, non-greasy, breathable second-skin film
• Once-daily application potential
• Suitable for sensitive and pediatric skin
• Water-based and cosmetically elegant
Cosmetic Positioning Opportunities
• Dermo-cosmetic line for atopic-prone skin
• Pediatric preventive skincare
• Environmental defense / anti-pollution skincare
• OTC pharmacy-distributed protective skincare
Technology
The proposed technology is based on the application of highly crystalline nanocellulose (CNC and/or NFC), including optionally TEMPO-oxidized derivatives, formulated in a water-based topical system that forms a thin, transparent film on the skin surface. Nanocellulose particles are characterized by exceptionally high surface area and defined crystalline domains, enabling strong affinity interactions with Carbohydrate Binding Modules (CBMs) commonly present in environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and plant proteins.
Upon topical application, the formulation dries to create a breathable nanofilm that acts as an active allergen trap: instead of merely forming a passive occlusive barrier, the nanocellulose physically binds CBM-containing allergenic proteins at the skin interface, preventing their penetration through epidermal tight junctions and interrupting the IgE-mediated inflammatory cascade.
The nanocellulose is produced via controlled mechanical microfluidization of microcrystalline cellulose, avoiding harsh chemical processing and enhancing cosmetic compatibility. The result is a transparent, non-greasy, cosmetically elegant protective film that combines materials science, protein-binding specificity, and dermatological functionality in a single preventive platform.
Commercial Opportunity
While Atopic Dermatitis (AD) represents a significant and growing global market (projected ~$7.6B+ with steady CAGR), the commercial opportunity for Active Allergen-Shield™ extends far beyond AD treatment. This platform introduces a new preventive category: active allergen-defense skincare, positioned at the intersection of dermatology, cosmetics, environmental protection, and pediatric care.
Patents & Publications
Cellulose-based topical formulations, National Phase in US and EU, PCT/IL2019/050896, Yissum #6509
Contact in Yissum
Ilya Pittel, Ph.D. | VP of Business Development
AgTech, FoodTech, Veterinary & Environmental Sciences
Yissum, The Technology Transfer Company of
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
T + 972.2.658.6693 | M +972.54.782.2354
Hi-Tech Park, Edmond J. Safra Campus, Givat Ram
