Next-generation full-thickness human skin models produced using 3D electrospun scaffolds and animal-component-free culture media

Introduction In vitro full-thickness human skin (FT-Skin) models are important tools for testing of cosmetics and chemicals, screening of new pharmaceuticals, and human disease modeling research. However, these skin models commonly utilize animal-derived collagen as a main structural element of the stromal matrix. Animal-derived collagen constructs suffer from stability and contraction issues, resulting in short lifespan and poor reproducibility. Additionally, culture media utilized to produce these models commonly contain undesirable animal-derived components including fetal bovine serum (FBS) and bovine pituitary extract (BPE). Methods To address these shortcomings, FT-Skin models were developed without animal-derived collagen by using electrospun scaffolds as a structural component of the stromal constructs, together with FBS- and BPE-free culture media formulations. Results These novel culture protocols and media formulations produced well-developed FT-Skin models with improved lifespan and barrier properties. Protocol transferability, and intra- and inter-lot reproducibility of the FT-Skin models were demonstrated by testing in 2 independent laboratories. Discussion These next-generation FT-Skin models offer opportunities for completely animal-product-free testing of cosmetics and chemicals, screening of new pharmaceuticals and more human-relevant modeling of skin diseases. The electrospun scaffolds and basic processes for development of animal-free subepithelial stromal constructs are also anticipated to be adaptable to the development of additional epithelial tissue models such as ocular, airway and intestine.