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Targeting the Complexity of In Vitro Skin Models: A Review of Cutting-Edge Developments
Cristina Quílez1, Luís B Bebiano2, Eleri Jones3
1Bioengineering Department, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Leganés, Spain; Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de la Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain.
The Journal of Investigative Dermatology
|August 11, 2024
Summary
Advanced in vitro skin models show promise for research and product testing, reducing animal use. However, creating physiologically accurate models for studying skin aging and disease is still developing.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Dermatology
- Toxicology
Background:
- In vitro skin models offer alternatives to animal testing for drug, cosmetic, and medical device research.
- Current models range from simple cell cultures to complex 3D engineered tissues.
- Some models are approved for preclinical testing, but physiologically reliable models are still under development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in complex in vitro human skin models.
- To discuss the application of these models in studying skin homeostasis, aging, and diseases.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on in vitro skin model development.
- Analysis of different in vitro model complexities, from monolayers to organotypic and bioengineered 3D models.
Main Results:
- Significant progress has been made in developing sophisticated in vitro skin models.
- These models show potential for studying complex biological processes like skin aging and disease.
- Challenges remain in achieving full physiological relevance for all applications.
Conclusions:
- In vitro skin models are evolving rapidly, offering promising alternatives for research and testing.
- Further development is needed to enhance the physiological reliability of these models for comprehensive skin studies.
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