For over 40 years, L’Oréal Research & Innovation has been expanding its knowledge and know-how in reconstructed skin.
Table of Contents
Skin Technology – Advancing 3D-printed skins..
Advancements in Bioprinted Skin Approaching Human Skin Characteristics!
Following six years of collaborative research with Professor Dalton’s teams at the University of Oregon, L’Oréal R&I has successfully developed a reconstructed skin model that closely resembles human skin. The collaboration has integrated a 3D printing technique known as Melt ElectroWriting (MEW) with conventional artificial skin culture methods, resulting in a reconstructed skin that features a functional, living, and interactive epidermis and dermis. A significant advantage of this model is its enhanced ability to replicate an extracellular matrix (ECM) structure that is more intricate and representative of human skin, thereby providing cultured cells with a more conducive and authentic environment for growth.
This innovation not only improves cell culture conditions compared to previous models but also allows for customization. It enables the incorporation of various cell types—such as keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and melanocytes—into specially designed extracellular matrices that can simulate skin characteristics of different ages. Beyond increased accuracy, this technology facilitates the creation of a wide range of reconstructed skin types.
Moving Beyond Conventional Models!
Traditional reconstructed skin models rely on the culture of skin cells within matrices that imitate the structure of human skin. Until recently, these models were deemed effective, yet they fell short in replicating ECMs that were as well-structured as those found in human skin. Consequently, while cell growth was achievable, the conditions were not as favorable or representative of actual human skin.
Moreover, these conventional models required a growth period of 21 to 50 days, which, in comparison to the 28-day cell renewal cycle, restricted the potential for certain experimental applications.
Hybrid multidisciplinary expertise
Professor Dalton, a specialist in 3D printing at the University of Oregon, has pioneered the MEW 3D printing technique, significantly advancing it and transforming the field of reconstructed skin. He introduced a novel biocompatible printing polymer capable of producing exceptionally thin, precise fibrillar structures that closely resemble collagen fibers found in the human extracellular matrix (ECM).
Prior to this development, no 3D printing method could achieve such intricate structures. The application of this polymer in MEW 3D printing facilitates the recreation of cell culture environments that more accurately mimic human skin.
The future of collaborative science……
The forthcoming objective for Professor Dalton’s research teams is to improve the reproducibility of their models to ensure reliable standardization and scalability.
Skin Technology
This innovation enables the creation of customizable models that increasingly resemble human skin, thereby opening up a wide array of potential applications. With a standardized approach, researchers will be equipped to investigate cell interactions, alterations in skin structure, and the temporal changes of specific markers.
Ultimately, this model has the potential to serve as a crucial fundamental research instrument in dermocosmetics, particularly in examining the effects of environmental factors on skin aging, among other areas. “The data we gather from these models will enhance our understanding, which we can then integrate with other findings. AI will further propel our advancements,” states Valérie Michaut, Director of Predictive Technologies at L’Oréal.
In addition to its cosmetic applications, this innovative generation of reconstructed skin offers a significant therapeutic alternative for patients with severe burns requiring extensive skin grafts.
