Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 30, 2025
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Cultivating a Three-dimensional Reconstructed Human Epidermis at a Large Scale
Published on: May 28, 2021
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An innervated skin 3D in vitro model for dermatological research
Emma Rousi1,2, Afonso Malheiro1, Abhishek Harichandan1
1Department of Complex Tissue Regeneration, MERLN Institute for Technology Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
In Vitro Models
|January 28, 2025
Summary
Researchers developed a novel 3D innervated skin model using human cells and biomaterials. This advanced model accurately mimics skin
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Dermatology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Current 3D in vitro skin models often lack innervation and rely on animal-derived materials.
- Studying skin-neuron interactions and sensory properties requires biomimetic models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a humanized 3D in vitro skin model with integrated sensory neurons.
- To create a more biomimetic model for dermatological research and toxicity testing.
Main Methods:
- Utilized fibrin hydrogel and aligned poly(ethylene oxide terephthalate)/poly(butylene terephthalate) (PEOT/PBT) electrospun fibers as a scaffold.
- Incorporated primary human keratinocytes and fibroblasts for the skin component.
- Co-cultured with induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived sensory neurons.
Main Results:
- The dermal component showed fibroblast presence and collagen synthesis.
- The epidermal layer expressed key markers like keratin 10/14 and involucrin.
- Sensory neurons successfully extended axons throughout the scaffold, reaching the epidermis.
- Capsaicin treatment demonstrated model responsiveness, affecting substance P and tubulin β3 levels.
Conclusions:
- A functional, humanized 3D innervated skin model was successfully developed.
- This model offers improved biomimicry for studying skin-neuron interactions.
- Potential applications include cutaneous toxicity assessment and sensory research.
