1
|
Cho SW, Malick H, Kim SJ, Grattoni A. Advances in Skin-on-a-Chip Technologies for Dermatological Disease Modeling. J Invest Dermatol 2024; 144:1707-1715. [PMID: 38493383 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2024.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Skin-on-a-chip (SoC) technologies are emerging as a paradigm shift in dermatology research by replicating human physiology in a dynamic manner not achievable by current animal models. Although animal models have contributed to successful clinical trials, their ability to predict human outcomes remains questionable, owing to inherent differences in skin anatomy and immune response. Covering areas including infectious diseases, autoimmune skin conditions, wound healing, drug toxicity, aging, and antiaging, SoC aims to circumvent the inherent disparities created by traditional models. In this paper, we review current SoC technologies, highlighting their potential as an alternative to animal models for a deeper understanding of complex skin conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seo Won Cho
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, Texas, USA; Texas A&M University School of Medicine, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Hamza Malick
- Texas A&M University School of Medicine, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Soo Jung Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Alessandro Grattoni
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, Texas, USA; Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA; Department of Radiation Oncology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Shakel Z, Costa Lima SA, Reis S. Strategies to make human skin models based on cellular senescence for ageing research. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 100:102430. [PMID: 39032611 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Human skin ageing is closely related to the ageing of the whole organism, and it's a continuous multisided process that is influenced not only by genetic and physiological factors but also by the cumulative impact of environmental factors. Currently, there is a scientific community need for developing skin models representing ageing processes to (i) enhance understanding on the mechanisms of ageing, (ii) discover new drugs for the treatment of age-related diseases, and (iii) develop effective dermo-cosmetics. Bioengineers worldwide are trying to reproduce skin ageing in the laboratory aiming to better comprehend and mitigate the senescence process. This review provides details on the main ageing molecular mechanisms and procedures to obtain in vitro aged skin models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zinaida Shakel
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia A Costa Lima
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, ICBAS, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Portugal.
| | - Salette Reis
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ismayilzada N, Tarar C, Dabbagh SR, Tokyay BK, Dilmani SA, Sokullu E, Abaci HE, Tasoglu S. Skin-on-a-chip technologies towards clinical translation and commercialization. Biofabrication 2024; 16:042001. [PMID: 38964314 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ad5f55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Skin is the largest organ of the human body which plays a critical role in thermoregulation, metabolism (e.g. synthesis of vitamin D), and protection of other organs from environmental threats, such as infections, microorganisms, ultraviolet radiation, and physical damage. Even though skin diseases are considered to be less fatal, the ubiquity of skin diseases and irritation caused by them highlights the importance of skin studies. Furthermore, skin is a promising means for transdermal drug delivery, which requires a thorough understanding of human skin structure. Current animal andin vitrotwo/three-dimensional skin models provide a platform for disease studies and drug testing, whereas they face challenges in the complete recapitulation of the dynamic and complex structure of actual skin tissue. One of the most effective methods for testing pharmaceuticals and modeling skin diseases are skin-on-a-chip (SoC) platforms. SoC technologies provide a non-invasive approach for examining 3D skin layers and artificially creating disease models in order to develop diagnostic or therapeutic methods. In addition, SoC models enable dynamic perfusion of culture medium with nutrients and facilitate the continuous removal of cellular waste to further mimic thein vivocondition. Here, the article reviews the most recent advances in the design and applications of SoC platforms for disease modeling as well as the analysis of drugs and cosmetics. By examining the contributions of different patents to the physiological relevance of skin models, the review underscores the significant shift towards more ethical and efficient alternatives to animal testing. Furthermore, it explores the market dynamics ofin vitroskin models and organ-on-a-chip platforms, discussing the impact of legislative changes and market demand on the development and adoption of these advanced research tools. This article also identifies the existing obstacles that hinder the advancement of SoC platforms, proposing directions for future improvements, particularly focusing on the journey towards clinical adoption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nilufar Ismayilzada
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Ceren Tarar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | | | - Begüm Kübra Tokyay
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Sara Asghari Dilmani
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Emel Sokullu
- School of Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Hasan Erbil Abaci
- Department of Dermatology, Columbia University, New York City, NY, United States of America
| | - Savas Tasoglu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
- Boğaziçi Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Boğaziçi University, Istanbul 34684, Turkey
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
- Koç University Arçelik Research Center for Creative Industries (KUAR), Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hu J, Anderson W, Hayes E, Strauss EA, Lang J, Bacos J, Simacek N, Vu HH, McCarty OJT, Kim H, Kang YA. The development, use, and challenges of electromechanical tissue stimulation systems. Artif Organs 2024. [PMID: 38887912 DOI: 10.1111/aor.14808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tissue stimulations greatly affect cell growth, phenotype, and function, and they play an important role in modeling tissue physiology. With the goal of understanding the cellular mechanisms underlying the response of tissues to external stimulations, in vitro models of tissue stimulation have been developed in hopes of recapitulating in vivo tissue function. METHODS Herein we review the efforts to create and validate tissue stimulators responsive to electrical or mechanical stimulation including tensile, compression, torsion, and shear. RESULTS Engineered tissue platforms have been designed to allow tissues to be subjected to selected types of mechanical stimulation from simple uniaxial to humanoid robotic stain through equal-biaxial strain. Similarly, electrical stimulators have been developed to apply selected electrical signal shapes, amplitudes, and load cycles to tissues, lending to usage in stem cell-derived tissue development, tissue maturation, and tissue functional regeneration. Some stimulators also allow for the observation of tissue morphology in real-time while cells undergo stimulation. Discussion on the challenges and limitations of tissue simulator development is provided. CONCLUSIONS Despite advances in the development of useful tissue stimulators, opportunities for improvement remain to better reproduce physiological functions by accounting for complex loading cycles, electrical and mechanical induction coupled with biological stimuli, and changes in strain affected by applied inputs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Hu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
| | - William Anderson
- Department of Mechanical, Civil, and Biomedical Engineering, George Fox University, Newberg, Oregon, USA
| | - Emily Hayes
- Department of Mechanical, Civil, and Biomedical Engineering, George Fox University, Newberg, Oregon, USA
| | - Ellie Annah Strauss
- Department of Mechanical, Civil, and Biomedical Engineering, George Fox University, Newberg, Oregon, USA
| | - Jordan Lang
- Department of Mechanical, Civil, and Biomedical Engineering, George Fox University, Newberg, Oregon, USA
| | - Josh Bacos
- Department of Mechanical, Civil, and Biomedical Engineering, George Fox University, Newberg, Oregon, USA
| | - Noah Simacek
- Department of Mechanical, Civil, and Biomedical Engineering, George Fox University, Newberg, Oregon, USA
| | - Helen H Vu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Owen J T McCarty
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Cell, Developmental and Cancer Biology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Hoyeon Kim
- Department of Engineering, Loyola University Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Youngbok Abraham Kang
- Department of Mechanical, Civil, and Biomedical Engineering, George Fox University, Newberg, Oregon, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Shariff S, Kantawala B, Xochitun Gopar Franco W, Dejene Ayele N, Munyangaju I, Esam Alzain F, Nazir A, Wojtara M, Uwishema O. Tailoring epilepsy treatment: personalized micro-physiological systems illuminate individual drug responses. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:3557-3567. [PMID: 38846814 PMCID: PMC11152789 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000002078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Approximately 50 million people worldwide have epilepsy, with many not achieving seizure freedom. Organ-on-chip technology, which mimics organ-level physiology, could revolutionize drug development for epilepsy by replacing animal models in preclinical studies. The authors' goal is to determine if customized micro-physiological systems can lead to tailored drug treatments for epileptic patients. Materials and methods A comprehensive literature search was conducted utilizing various databases, including PubMed, Ebscohost, Medline, and the National Library of Medicine, using a predetermined search strategy. The authors focused on articles that addressed the role of personalized micro-physiological systems in individual drug responses and articles that discussed different types of epilepsy, diagnosis, and current treatment options. Additionally, articles that explored the components and design considerations of micro-physiological systems were reviewed to identify challenges and opportunities in drug development for challenging epilepsy cases. Results The micro-physiological system offers a more accurate and cost-effective alternative to traditional models for assessing drug effects, toxicities, and disease mechanisms. Nevertheless, designing patient-specific models presents critical considerations, including the integration of analytical biosensors and patient-derived cells, while addressing regulatory, material, and biological complexities. Material selection, standardization, integration of vascular systems, cost efficiency, real-time monitoring, and ethical considerations are also crucial to the successful use of this technology in drug development. Conclusion The future of organ-on-chip technology holds great promise, with the potential to integrate artificial intelligence and machine learning for personalized treatment of epileptic patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanobar Shariff
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Yerevan State Medical University, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Burhan Kantawala
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Yerevan State Medical University, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - William Xochitun Gopar Franco
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Nitsuh Dejene Ayele
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Wolkite University, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| | - Isabelle Munyangaju
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- College of Medicine and General Surgery, Sudan University Of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Fatima Esam Alzain
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- College of Medicine and General Surgery, Sudan University Of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Abubakar Nazir
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Medicine, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Madga Wojtara
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Olivier Uwishema
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Clinton Global Initiative University, New York, NY
- Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ponmozhi J, Dhinakaran S, Kocsis D, Iván K, Erdő F. Models for barrier understanding in health and disease in lab-on-a-chips. Tissue Barriers 2024; 12:2221632. [PMID: 37294075 PMCID: PMC11042069 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2023.2221632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The maintenance of body homeostasis relies heavily on physiological barriers. Dysfunction of these barriers can lead to various pathological processes, including increased exposure to toxic materials and microorganisms. Various methods exist to investigate barrier function in vivo and in vitro. To investigate barrier function in a highly reproducible manner, ethically, and high throughput, researchers have turned to non-animal techniques and micro-scale technologies. In this comprehensive review, the authors summarize the current applications of organ-on-a-chip microfluidic devices in the study of physiological barriers. The review covers the blood-brain barrier, ocular barriers, dermal barrier, respiratory barriers, intestinal, hepatobiliary, and renal/bladder barriers under both healthy and pathological conditions. The article then briefly presents placental/vaginal, and tumour/multi-organ barriers in organ-on-a-chip devices. Finally, the review discusses Computational Fluid Dynamics in microfluidic systems that integrate biological barriers. This article provides a concise yet informative overview of the current state-of-the-art in barrier studies using microfluidic devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J. Ponmozhi
- Microfluidics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IPS Academy-Institute of Engineering Science, Indore, India
| | - S. Dhinakaran
- The Centre for Fluid Dynamics, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore, India
| | - Dorottya Kocsis
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Kristóf Iván
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Franciska Erdő
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kaiser K, Bendixen SM, Sørensen JA, Brewer JR. From static to dynamic: The influence of mechanotransduction on skin equivalents analyzed by bioimaging and RNAseq. Mater Today Bio 2024; 25:101010. [PMID: 38495916 PMCID: PMC10940786 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2024.101010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, we explore the impact of mechanical stimuli on skin models using an innovative skin-on-a-chip platform, addressing the limitations of conventional transwell-cultured skin equivalents. This platform facilitates cyclic mechanical stimulation through compression and stretching, combined with automated media perfusion. Our findings, using bioimaging and bulk RNA sequencing, reveal increased expression of Keratin 10 and Keratin 14, indicating enhanced skin differentiation and mechanical integrity. The increase in desmosomes and tight junctions, observed through Claudin-1 and Desmoplakin 1 & 2 analysis, suggests improved keratinocyte differentiation due to mechanical stimulation. Gene expression analyses reveal a nuanced regulatory response, suggesting a potential connection to the Hippo pathway, indicative of a significant cellular reaction to mechanical stimuli. The results show the important influence of mechanical stimulation on skin model integrity and differentiation, demonstrating the potential of our microfluidic platform in advancing skin biology research and pharmaceutical testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Kaiser
- University of Southern Denmark, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Campusvej 55, Odense M, 5230, Denmark
| | - Sofie M. Bendixen
- University of Southern Denmark, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Campusvej 55, Odense M, 5230, Denmark
| | - Jens Ahm Sørensen
- Odense University Hospital, Research Unit of Plastic Surgery, Odense C, 5000, Denmark
| | - Jonathan R. Brewer
- University of Southern Denmark, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Campusvej 55, Odense M, 5230, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Jeong S, Nam HM, Sung GY. Optimization of hair follicle spheroids for hair-on-a-chip. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:1693-1706. [PMID: 38372380 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm02012f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Currently, most models for hair follicle research have the limitation of not replicating some key features of the hair follicle microenvironment. To complement this, we transfected various factors for hair growth into dermal papilla cells (DPCs) by electroporation and cultured the spheroids with keratinocytes (KCs). We optimized the cell number and culture period for applying spheroids to hair-on-a-chip. Furthermore, we investigated the expression of hair growth factors in spheroids depending on the presence or absence of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and transfection. In spheroids in which DPCs, KCs, and HUVECs were co-cultured for 21 days, the expression of lymphoid enhancer factor 1 (LEF1), T-cell factor 1 (TCF1), and keratin 25 (K25) in the center of the spheroid, the expression of keratin 17 (K17) on the outer surface of the spheroid, and the shape of hair extending outward from the spheroid surface were observed. From these results, it is expected that a hair-on-a-chip experiment in which short-term cultured TKH spheroids are injected into the dermis and co-cultured with KC will enable the production of full-thickness skin equivalents containing hair in vitro without transplantation into animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Subin Jeong
- Interdisciplinary Program of Nano-Medical Device Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea.
- Integrative Materials Research Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeon-Min Nam
- Interdisciplinary Program of Nano-Medical Device Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea.
- Integrative Materials Research Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Gun Yong Sung
- Interdisciplinary Program of Nano-Medical Device Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea.
- Integrative Materials Research Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
- Major in Materials Science and Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kaiser K, Sørensen JA, Brewer JR. Novel Chip for Applying Mechanical Forces on Human Skin Models Under Dynamic Culture Conditions. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2024; 30:85-91. [PMID: 37950718 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2023.0195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years the need for in vitro skin models as a replacement for animal studies has resulted in significant progress in the development of skin-on-a-chip models. These devices allow the fine control of the microenvironment of the model and the incorporation of chemical and physical stimuli. In this study, we describe the development of an easy and low-budget open-top dynamic microfluidic device for skin-on-a-chip experiments using polydimethylsiloxane and a porous polyethylene terephthalate membrane. The chip allows the incorporation of compressive stimuli during the cultivation period by the use of syringe pumps. Proof-of-concept results show the successful differentiation of the cells and establishment of the skin structure in the chip. The microfluidic skin-on-a-chip models presented in this study can serve as a platform for future drug and feasibility studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Kaiser
- SDU, Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Jonathan R Brewer
- SDU, Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Odense, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Govey-Scotland J, Johnstone L, Myant C, Friddin MS. Towards skin-on-a-chip for screening the dermal absorption of cosmetics. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:5068-5080. [PMID: 37938128 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00691c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Over the past few decades, there have been increasing global efforts to limit or ban the use of animals for testing cosmetic products. This ambition has been at the heart of international endeavours to develop new in vitro and animal-free approaches for assessing the safety of cosmetics. While several of these new approach methodologies (NAMs) have been approved for assessing different toxicological endpoints in the UK and across the EU, there remains an absence of animal-free methods for screening for dermal absorption; a measure that assesses the degree to which chemical substances can become systemically available through contact with human skin. Here, we identify some of the major technical barriers that have impacted regulatory recognition of an in vitro skin model for this purpose and propose how these could be overcome on-chip using artificial cells engineered from the bottom-up. As part of our future perspective, we suggest how this could be realised using a digital biomanufacturing pipeline that connects the design, microfluidic generation and 3D printing of artificial cells into user-crafted synthetic tissues. We highlight milestone achievements towards this goal, identify future challenges, and suggest how the ability to engineer animal-free skin models could have significant long-term consequences for dermal absorption screening, as well as for other applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Govey-Scotland
- Dyson School of Design Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, South Kensington, SW7 2AZ, London, UK.
- Institute for Molecular Sciences and Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, South Kensington, SW7 2AZ, London, UK
| | - Liam Johnstone
- Office for Product Safety and Standards, 1 Victoria Street, SW1H 0ET, London, UK
| | - Connor Myant
- Dyson School of Design Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, South Kensington, SW7 2AZ, London, UK.
| | - Mark S Friddin
- Dyson School of Design Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, South Kensington, SW7 2AZ, London, UK.
- Institute for Molecular Sciences and Engineering, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, South Kensington, SW7 2AZ, London, UK
- fabriCELL, Imperial College London and Kings College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kim K, Jang H, Kim E, Kim H, Sung GY. Recent advances in understanding the role of the skin microbiome in the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Exp Dermatol 2023; 32:2048-2061. [PMID: 37767872 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
The skin is the largest organ in the human body, and histologically consists of the epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Humans maintain a cooperative symbiotic relationship with their skin microbiota, a complex community of bacteria, fungi and viruses that live on the surface of the skin, and which act as a barrier to protect the body from the inside and outside. The skin is a 'habitat' and vast 'ecosystem' inhabited by countless microbes; as such, relationships have been forged through millions of years of coevolution. It is not surprising then that microbes are key participants in shaping and maintaining essential physiological processes. In addition to maintaining barrier function, the unique symbiotic microbiota that colonizes the skin increases the immune response and provides protection against pathogenic microbes. This review examines our current understanding of skin microbes in shaping and enhancing the skin barrier, as well as skin microbiome-host interactions and their roles in skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis (AD). We also report on the current status of AD therapeutic drugs that target the skin microbiome, related research on current therapeutic strategies, and the limitations and future considerations of skin microbiome research. In particular, as a future strategy, we discuss the need for a skin-on-a-chip-based microphysiological system research model amenable to biomimetic in vitro studies and human skin equivalent models, including skin appendages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyunghee Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program of Nano-Medical Device Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Korea
- Integrative Materials Research Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Hyeji Jang
- Interdisciplinary Program of Nano-Medical Device Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Korea
- Integrative Materials Research Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Eunyul Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program of Nano-Medical Device Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Korea
- Integrative Materials Research Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Hyeju Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program of Nano-Medical Device Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Korea
- Integrative Materials Research Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Gun Yong Sung
- Interdisciplinary Program of Nano-Medical Device Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Korea
- Integrative Materials Research Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Korea
- Major in Materials Science and Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Luo Y, Li X, Zhao Y, Zhong W, Xing M, Lyu G. Development of Organs-on-Chips and Their Impact on Precision Medicine and Advanced System Simulation. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2094. [PMID: 37631308 PMCID: PMC10460056 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15082094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Drugs may undergo costly preclinical studies but still fail to demonstrate their efficacy in clinical trials, which makes it challenging to discover new drugs. Both in vitro and in vivo models are essential for disease research and therapeutic development. However, these models cannot simulate the physiological and pathological environment in the human body, resulting in limited drug detection and inaccurate disease modelling, failing to provide valid guidance for clinical application. Organs-on-chips (OCs) are devices that serve as a micro-physiological system or a tissue-on-a-chip; they provide accurate insights into certain functions and the pathophysiology of organs to precisely predict the safety and efficiency of drugs in the body. OCs are faster, more economical, and more precise. Thus, they are projected to become a crucial addition to, and a long-term replacement for, traditional preclinical cell cultures, animal studies, and even human clinical trials. This paper first outlines the nature of OCs and their significance, and then details their manufacturing-related materials and methodology. It also discusses applications of OCs in drug screening and disease modelling and treatment, and presents the future perspective of OCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Luo
- Burn & Trauma Treatment Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China; (Y.L.); (X.L.)
- Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education for Wound Repair Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Li
- Burn & Trauma Treatment Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China; (Y.L.); (X.L.)
- Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education for Wound Repair Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
- Department of General Surgery, Huai’an 82 Hospital, Huai’an 223003, China
| | - Yawei Zhao
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada; (Y.Z.); (W.Z.)
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Wen Zhong
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada; (Y.Z.); (W.Z.)
| | - Malcolm Xing
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Guozhong Lyu
- Burn & Trauma Treatment Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China; (Y.L.); (X.L.)
- Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education for Wound Repair Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
- National Research Center for Emergency Medicine, Beijing 100000, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ansaf RB, Ziebart R, Gudapati H, Simoes Torigoe RM, Victorelli S, Passos J, Wyles SP. 3D bioprinting-a model for skin aging. Regen Biomater 2023; 10:rbad060. [PMID: 37501679 PMCID: PMC10369216 DOI: 10.1093/rb/rbad060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Human lifespan continues to extend as an unprecedented number of people reach their seventh and eighth decades of life, unveiling chronic conditions that affect the older adult. Age-related skin conditions include senile purpura, seborrheic keratoses, pemphigus vulgaris, bullous pemphigoid, diabetic foot wounds and skin cancer. Current methods of drug testing prior to clinical trials require the use of pre-clinical animal models, which are often unable to adequately replicate human skin response. Therefore, a reliable model for aged human skin is needed. The current challenges in developing an aged human skin model include the intrinsic variability in skin architecture from person to person. An ideal skin model would incorporate innate functionality such as sensation, vascularization and regeneration. The advent of 3D bioprinting allows us to create human skin equivalent for use as clinical-grade surgical graft, for drug testing and other needs. In this review, we describe the process of human skin aging and outline the steps to create an aged skin model with 3D bioprinting using skin cells (i.e. keratinocytes, fibroblasts and melanocytes). We also provide an overview of current bioprinted skin models, associated limitations and direction for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryeim B Ansaf
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University Pueblo, Pueblo, CO 81001, USA
| | - Rachel Ziebart
- Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | | | | | - Stella Victorelli
- Mayo Clinic Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Mayo Clinic Robert and Arlene Kogod Center on Aging, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Joao Passos
- Mayo Clinic Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Mayo Clinic Robert and Arlene Kogod Center on Aging, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Freer M, Darling N, Goncalves K, Mills KJ, Przyborski S. Development of a mammalian neurosensory full‐thickness skin equivalent and its application to screen sensitizing stimuli. Bioeng Transl Med 2023; 8:e10484. [DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Freer
- Department of Biosciences Durham University Durham UK
| | | | | | | | - Stefan Przyborski
- Department of Biosciences Durham University Durham UK
- Reprocell Europe Ltd Glasgow UK
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Jeong S, Na Y, Nam HM, Sung GY. Skin-on-a-chip strategies for human hair follicle regeneration. Exp Dermatol 2023; 32:13-23. [PMID: 36308297 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The number of hair loss patients increases every year, and hair loss treatment has several limitations, so research on hair is attracting attention recently. However, most current hair follicle research models are limited by their inability to replicate several key functions of the hair follicle microenvironment. To complement this, an in vitro culture system similar to the in vivo environment must be constructed. It is necessary to develop a hair-on-a-chip that implements a fully functional hair follicle model by reproducing the main characteristics of hair follicle morphogenesis and cycle. In this review, we summarize the gradation of hair follicle morphogenesis and the roles and mechanisms of molecular signals involved in the hair follicle cycle. In addition, we discuss research results of various in vitro organoid products and organ-on-a-chip-based hair follicle tissue chips for the treatment of alopecia and present future research and development directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Subin Jeong
- Interdisciplinary Program of Nano-Medical Device Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon, South Korea.,Integrative Materials Research Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Yoojin Na
- Interdisciplinary Program of Nano-Medical Device Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon, South Korea.,Integrative Materials Research Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Hyeon-Min Nam
- Integrative Materials Research Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon, South Korea.,Major in Materials Science and Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Gun Yong Sung
- Interdisciplinary Program of Nano-Medical Device Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon, South Korea.,Integrative Materials Research Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon, South Korea.,Major in Materials Science and Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kim K, Jeong S, Sung GY. Effect of Periodical Tensile Stimulation on the Human Skin Equivalents by Magnetic Stretching Skin-on-a-Chip (MSSC). BIOCHIP JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s13206-022-00092-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
17
|
Kim K, Kim H, Sung GY. Effects of Indole-3-Lactic Acid, a Metabolite of Tryptophan, on IL-4 and IL-13-Induced Human Skin-Equivalent Atopic Dermatitis Models. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13520. [PMID: 36362303 PMCID: PMC9655012 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Indole-3-lactic acid (I3LA) is a well-known metabolite involved in tryptophan metabolism. Indole derivatives are involved in the differentiation of immune cells and the synthesis of cytokines via the aryl hydrocarbon receptors for modulating immunity, and the indole derivatives may be involved in allergic responses. I3LA was selected as a candidate substance for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD), and its inhibitory effect on AD progression was investigated. Full-thickness human skin equivalents (HSEs) consisting of human-derived cells were generated on microfluidic chips and stimulated with major AD-inducing factors. The induced AD-HSEs were treated with I3LA for 7 days, and this affected the AD-associated genetic biomarkers and increased the expression of the major constituent proteins of the skin barrier. After the treatment for 14 days, the surface became rough and sloughed off, and there was no significant difference between the increased AD-related mRNA expression and the skin barrier protein expression. Therefore, the short-term use of I3LA for approximately one week is considered to be effective in suppressing AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyunghee Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program of Nano-Medical Device Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
- Integrative Materials Research Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
| | - Hyeju Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program of Nano-Medical Device Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
- Integrative Materials Research Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
| | - Gun Yong Sung
- Interdisciplinary Program of Nano-Medical Device Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
- Integrative Materials Research Institute, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
- Major in Materials Science and Engineering, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Phang SJ, Basak S, Teh HX, Packirisamy G, Fauzi MB, Kuppusamy UR, Neo YP, Looi ML. Advancements in Extracellular Matrix-Based Biomaterials and Biofabrication of 3D Organotypic Skin Models. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2022; 8:3220-3241. [PMID: 35861577 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c00342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Over the last decades, three-dimensional (3D) organotypic skin models have received enormous attention as alternative models to in vivo animal models and in vitro two-dimensional assays. To date, most organotypic skin models have an epidermal layer of keratinocytes and a dermal layer of fibroblasts embedded in an extracellular matrix (ECM)-based biomaterial. The ECM provides mechanical support and biochemical signals to the cells. Without advancements in ECM-based biomaterials and biofabrication technologies, it would have been impossible to create organotypic skin models that mimic native human skin. In this review, the use of ECM-based biomaterials in the reconstruction of skin models, as well as the study of complete ECM-based biomaterials, such as fibroblasts-derived ECM and decellularized ECM as a better biomaterial, will be highlighted. We also discuss the benefits and drawbacks of several biofabrication processes used in the fabrication of ECM-based biomaterials, such as conventional static culture, electrospinning, 3D bioprinting, and skin-on-a-chip. Advancements and future possibilities in modifying ECM-based biomaterials to recreate disease-like skin models will also be highlighted, given the importance of organotypic skin models in disease modeling. Overall, this review provides an overview of the present variety of ECM-based biomaterials and biofabrication technologies available. An enhanced organotypic skin model is expected to be produced in the near future by combining knowledge from previous experiences and current research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shou Jin Phang
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Soumyadeep Basak
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee-247 667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Huey Xhin Teh
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Gopinath Packirisamy
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee-247 667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Mh Busra Fauzi
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Umah Rani Kuppusamy
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yun Ping Neo
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, 47500 Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mee Lee Looi
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|