Using Reconstructed Human Epidermis model in Skin Microbiome Research

The human body is host to trillions of microorganisms that live both on and inside our tissues, including the skin. The collection of microorganisms living on the human skin surface includes bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This ecosystem is called the skin microbiome and has a complex interplay with its host.

In this article, we will look at the nature of the skin microbiome, and focus on the use of Reconstructed Human Epidermis model- RHE (3D model) to study the interaction between the skin and the huge number of microorganisms that call it home.

As stated above, the human skin is home to a whole community of microorganisms, called the skin microbiome which has been described as being intricately linked to human health and disease. It is therefore believed to date that a proper balance of the skin microbiome is required. Consequently, while initially considered as harmful to the skin, microorganisms are currently being subjected to research aiming at maintaining the skin microbiota homeostasis for a healthy skin.

To date, there is emerging evidence of the role of the skin homeostasis supporting proper skin barrier and research into the skin microbiome is constantly growing as scientists try to better understand this field.

To do so, suitable experimental models are required, among which the Reconstructed Human Epidermis model – RHE (3D model) can be found. Indeed, in vitro, the RHE model is able to replicate the morphology and molecular characteristics of human epidermis and have become widely accepted as a valuable tool in dermatological research. Consequently, further to infection of the RHE surface by the different microorganism within the skin microbiome, the effects of different compounds on the skin microbiome may be assessed in cosmetics.

In vitro 3D Reconstructed Human Epidermis skin microbiome models offer many benefits for cosmetics and pharmacology research (Rademacher et al):

• Realistic human representation: A fully differentiated epidermis generated on the membrane of a cell culture insert provided by Bioalternatives.
• No need for cross-species extrapolation: as these are human models, and the results are directly applicable to humans.
• Ease of modification: with cytokines or growth factors, the models can be easily modified to simulate inflammation or disease.
• Ethical considerations: use of in vitro models overcome the ethical issues triggered by animal testing.*

In addition, the 3D Reconstructed Human Epidermis are incredibly versatile and can be created to suit the needs of specific requests, for example:

• Models created using cells derived from patients with certain skin conditions, like atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, or aged donor.

At Bioalternatives, we are committed to developing effective in vitro alternative options to animal experimentation methods, by offering a full range of solutions for the development of active ingredients and cosmetic formulations.

We offer customized technical solutions to guide your product research, support the claims of your cosmetic products, and test the safety of your cosmetic products at an early stage (for R&D purposes only). We have developed a selection of in vitro study models suitable for analyzing the interactions between microbiota and skin. These models can be used to assess the impact of compounds and formulations on the development of microorganisms, as well as their  influence on cutaneous response.

With extensive experience in cosmetic product testing and state-of-the-art facilities, we are pleased to offer you dedicated project management support and consulting for your R&D process.

Ready to discuss a testing and research program that will suit your business’s needs?

Get in touch with the Bioalternatives team today.