Culture insert device with perfusable microchannels enhancesin vitroskin model development and barrier function...

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology and Biomedical Engineering
• In Vitro Skin Modeling
• Microfluidics

Background:

• Increasingly strict regulations on animal testing for cosmetics drive demand for in vitro skin research.
• Advancements in in vitro skin models have progressed from simple bilayer structures to complex models incorporating hypodermis, vasculature, and appendages.
• There is a need for sophisticated in vitro models that accurately mimic in vivo skin for research and testing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and validate a novel microfluidic device for culturing in vitro skin models within standard 6-well plates.
• To assess the barrier function and percutaneous absorption of the developed in vitro skin model.
• To evaluate the impact of perfusion on the morphogenesis and vascularization of the in vitro skin model.

Main Methods:

• Development of a microfluidic device featuring a reverse flange-shaped anchor for seamless integration into 6-well plates.
• Culturing of in vitro skin models under both static and perfused conditions using the microfluidic device.
• Assessment of epidermal morphogenesis, barrier function, and percutaneous penetration of caffeine via vascular absorption.

Main Results:

• The microfluidic device enabled successful culturing and barrier function assessment of in vitro skin models without additional equipment.
• Perfusion through vascular-like channels significantly improved epidermal morphogenesis compared to static culture.
• The model allowed for effective evaluation of caffeine permeation and vascular absorption, key indicators for systemic drug exposure.

Conclusions:

• The novel microfluidic device offers a versatile platform for advanced in vitro skin model development and testing.
• Perfusion is a critical factor in enhancing the structural complexity and physiological relevance of in vitro skin models.
• This technology facilitates robust assessment of skin barrier function and percutaneous absorption for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications.