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Fractional transepidermal delivery: a histological analysis.
Helmut Beltraminelli1, Nathalie Dietrich, Thomas Hunziker
1Department of Dermatology, Inselspital University Hospital of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
Dermatology (Basel, Switzerland)
|November 30, 2011
Summary
Microneedle treatment and ablative fractional CO2 laser create skin defects for cell therapy. Microneedling offers advantages by avoiding devitalized tissue and potentially aiding vascular access for transplanted cells.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Regenerative Medicine
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Autologous cell therapy, such as melanocyte transplantation for vitiligo, requires minimally invasive transepidermal delivery.
- Reducing side effects like infection and scarring, and minimizing sick leave are crucial for cell therapy procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the microscopic treatment zones created by ablative fractional CO2 laser and microneedle treatment.
- To evaluate the suitability of these methods for delivering isolated cells in ex vivo human breast skin.
Main Methods:
- Ex vivo human breast skin samples were used.
- Ablative fractional CO2 laser treatment was applied.
- Microneedle treatment was applied.
Main Results:
- Ablative fractional CO2 laser created superficial epidermal defects (0.1-0.3 mm) with collagen denaturation.
- Microneedle treatment induced vertical fissures reaching the mid-dermis (up to 0.5 mm), injuring dermal blood vessels without necrosis.
- Treatment characteristics varied with laser spot size and energy delivery.
Conclusions:
- Both technologies create epidermal defects suitable for delivering cells like melanocytes.
- Microneedle treatment offers an advantage by not causing devitalized tissue.
- Microneedling may facilitate vascular access for transplanted cells.
