Revolutionary 3D Human Skin Prototype Developed by Bulgarian Scientists to Transform Medical Research

Bulgarian researchers from the "Plant Cell Biotechnology" department at the Center for Plant System Biology and Biotechnology (CBSBB), in collaboration with the Metabolomics Laboratory at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS), have developed an innovative 3D model of human skin aimed at advancing research in medicine and pharmacy. This prototype mimics the complex physiological structure and protective functions of the human epidermis through specialized techniques.

The experimental epidermal prototype replicates the outermost layer of human skin, which is the largest organ in the body. The thickness of the epidermis ranges from 50 to 100 µm, varying with age and other factors that can weaken the connections between the dermis and epidermis. The dermis, the deeper layer, is responsible for producing collagen and elastin alongside the epidermis. The epidermis itself is composed of keratinocyte epithelial cells, which primarily generate keratins that form a protective barrier, as well as melanocyte cells that provide pigmentation. Keratinocytes can differentiate and migrate, leading to the formation of five stratified layers essential for maintaining cellular immunity and homeostasis.

The scientists' model reproduces the stratified formation of epidermal layers using immortalized keratinocytes on a 3D polycarbonate matrix. This matrix is designed with specific porosity to facilitate optimal attachment, growth, and differentiation of keratinocytes within a multilayered structure. Immortalized keratinocytes are meticulously seeded on the matrix surface to create a continuous epidermal layer.

This innovative model allows for high-tech clinical studies to evaluate the biological effects and permeability of drugs and cosmetic formulations,...