An experimental model
of human
skin
maintained in survival condition
Means of evaluation to test
the efficiency of
an active agent, a topical product, a nutritional supplement, or a device.
The in vitro reconstitution
of skin equivalents
Scalp sample maintained
in survival conditions
Clinical trial
protocols (CCPPRB)
An experimental model of human skin maintained in survival condition
In order to limitate the use of in vivo tests with biopsy , while keeping focused on studying yhe performances of a product on human, we developped an alternative method based exclusively on cultures which allows us to maintain alive a fragment of normal skin or presenting pathologic disorders up to twenty one days.
This innovativing method was standardised to find the metabolic conditions of in vivo, maintain cellular viability and differentiation.
Therefore it becomes much more easier to analyse rapidly the efficiency and the tolerance of a complex product, or radiation (lasers, pulsed light, LED, radiofreqency) based on histological, immunohistological and biochemical analysis.
Experimental models
Permits quick evaluation of reactions resulting from oral or topical application of a product or active ingredient, as well as those provoked by certain radiations (Lasers, Pulsed Light, LED, etc…) on different types of skin
Cellular aging by oxidative stress, ultraviolet radiation (UV) or enzymatic aggression (elastase)
Model of reactive skin (neurogenic inflammation with substance P)
Model of alterations to connective tissue due to dermocorticoids
Simulation of cellular tissue damage due to pollution or tobacco use
Model of inflammation or irritation (lipopolysaccharides)
Simulation of physical aggression upon the skin (burns)
Simulation of a cellular hyperpigmentation by the neuromediators
Exposure to certain radiation (Visible light, Infrared, etc…)
DESCRIPTION OF OUR METHOD
A fragment of normal human skin, obtained from plastic surgery procedures, is placed in an inset (12 mm in diameter) which is submerged in a cell of culture.
The dermis is exposed to the culture through a porous membrane acting as intermediary (polycarbonate membrane with 12 µm porosity, Costar). The epidermis is exposed to the surrounding atmospheric air/CO2 (95% / 5%) and the sample is kept alive for a maximum of 20 days at 37°C. The culture’s substance, changed 3 times a week, is enriched with antibiotics, hormones, pituitary bovine extract and SVF.
This mixture is placed in the bottom of the cell, where a passage forms via slow diffusion between the 2 compartments towards the dermis by the intermediate porous membrane. A product or an active agent can be applied to the surface of the epidermis, which may also be exposed to radiation. In addition, active agents may be diluted and added to the culture so as to simulate the effects of systemic administration.
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