3D skin models provide a more accurate and dynamic representation of human skin, playing a crucial role in advancing research and therapies for rare skin diseases. At Protheragen, we offer specialized 3D model development services designed to support the discovery of new therapeutics, enhance disease modeling, and improve drug testing for rare skin conditions.
Introduction to 3D Skin Models
3D skin models are engineered to replicate the complex structure and function of human skin, providing a more realistic environment than traditional 2D cell cultures. These models integrate multiple skin cell types (such as keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and melanocytes) and extracellular matrix components, enabling more accurate disease modeling and drug testing. They are essential tools for studying skin diseases, wound healing, and the impact of therapeutic interventions.
Fig.1 Schematic illustrating construction of an RDEB 3D HSE. (Stanton, D. N.,
et al., 2022)
Recent advancements in bioprinting, organ-on-a-chip technology, and microfluidic cell culture have expanded the capabilities of 3D Skin Model, making them more accessible and efficient for high-throughput screening, toxicity testing, and disease research.
Applications of 3D Skin Models
Disease Modeling
3D skin models, particularly organoids, are crucial for understanding the pathophysiology of rare and genetic skin diseases. By replicating disease-specific conditions, including genetic mutations, these models allow for studies of skin disorders such as epidermolysis bullosa, ichthyosis, and melanoma. These models mimic real cellular interactions and tissue architecture, making them more reliable for disease research.
Drug Testing & Screening
One of the major applications of 3D skin models is in high-throughput drug testing and toxicity screening. These models provide a more accurate prediction of how drugs will perform in human skin, allowing researchers to evaluate drug efficacy, absorption, and toxicity, especially for dermatological treatments, before clinical trials. They offer better insights into the skin's response to therapeutics, improving the development process.
Cosmetic Testing & Skin Irritation Studies
3D skin models are widely used in the cosmetic industry to assess the safety and efficacy of skincare products. They are an alternative to animal testing for studying skin irritation, allergenicity, and phototoxicity, allowing researchers to evaluate the potential effects of cosmetic ingredients on human skin in a more ethical manner.
Types of 3D Skin Models
Various 3D skin models are widely used in research to mimic the human skin environment more accurately. These models, such as cell spheroids, organoids, and organ-on-a-chip systems, offer distinct advantages and challenges depending on the research focus.
Table1. Overview of various 3D culture models. (Imran, M., et al.,2024)
| 3D culture system |
Matrix material needed |
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
| Cell spheroids |
Use native ECM constituents of cell to mimic response in 3D microenvironment |
Easy to produce Economical High throughput
Simple to harvest and image |
Limited in size
Devoid of matrix interactions |
| Organoids |
Embedment of primary tissue in ECM
Natural and synthetic polymers required |
Organ-like heterogeneity
In vivo-like complexity
Patient-specific |
Can be variable
Lack vasculature
Complications in assay
No standardised protocol to develop
Lack a microenvironment |
| Organ-on-a chip |
Natural or synthetic polymers; microfluidic chips. |
Possibly high throughput
Controlled environment
Real-time analysis could be achieved
Simple to image |
Limitations to matrix replication
Not economical
Intensive skills needed |
| Explant cultures |
|
Demonstrate realistic cell–cell interactions and realistic cell compartmentalisation |
Low throughput
Difficult to harvest samples for imaging and analysis
Huge genetic variations |
Our Services
At Protheragen, we are dedicated to delivering a comprehensive range of 3D skin model development services to support research on rare skin diseases. Our team of expert scientists and researchers uses cutting-edge technologies and extensive expertise to create highly accurate and innovative 3D skin models, ensuring precision and reliability throughout every phase of development.
3D Skin Model Development Services
Protheragen offers specialized 3D skin model development services tailored to meet various research needs. Our services include creating customized 3D skin models, utilizing advanced technologies such as cell spheroids, organoids, and organ-on-a-chip systems.
Types of Rare Skin Diseases
With our extensive expertise, Protheragen offers a comprehensive range of 3D skin model development services, customized to suit the unique requirements of your research. Drawing on our in-depth experience in skin disease modeling, we are fully equipped to handle all aspects of 3D model development, providing accurate, innovative, and tailored solutions to support your scientific objectives.
Why Choose Us?
Professional core technical team.
Advanced experimental equipment.
Empowering success through cooperation.
Strict quality control system.
Protheragen offers comprehensive, one-stop preclinical development services, specializing in 3D Skin Model development for skin disease research. From diseases model development to drug safety evaluation, our services support every stage of your research process. If you are interested in our services, please don't hesitate to contact us.
References
- Imran, M., et al. "Advances in, and Prospects of, 3d Preclinical Models for Skin Drug Discovery." Drug Discov Today 29.12 (2024):
- Stanton, D. N., et al. "Bioengineered Efficacy Models of Skin Disease: Advances in the Last 10 Years." Pharmaceutics 14.2 (2022).
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use
only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.
