Advancing biotherapeutic and aesthetic research: introducing a cutting-edge ex-vivo animal skin model

In a groundbreaking leap forward, researchers from the R&D team at Teoxane have unveiled a novel ex-vivo animal skin model that promises to transform the evaluation of subcutaneously injected biomacromolecules. The study, detailed in the International Journal of Pharmaceutics, addresses the urgent requirement for advanced preclinical models that achieve a delicate balance between affordability and biological relevance.

Subcutaneous administration of biotherapeutics, such as hyaluronic acid, is a cornerstone in modern medical practices. However, evaluating the post-injection behavior in the tissue microenvironment has been a formidable challenge. Traditional in-vivo animal studies, laden with ethical concerns, are both time-consuming and costly. On the other hand, in-vitro models, while cost-efficient and high-throughput, often lack the complexity to simulate the intricate skin structure and biological functions.

Enter the ex-vivo animal skin model. Leveraging viable full-thickness animal skin, the innovative approach developed by Teoxane provides a solution that bridges the gap between in-vivo and in-vitro studies. Here, the study meticulously details the development of this model, emphasizing its structural integrity evaluated through a histological scoring system.

The research delves into the optimization of the ex-vivo animal skin culture system, scrutinizing the impact of culture medium composition. A meticulous histological scoring system, evaluating spongiosis-like phenomena and epidermal detachment, emerged as a powerful tool for objective skin integrity assessment. Key biomarkers were employed to provide comprehensive insights into skin viability over an extended culture period.

Hyaluronic acid, a biomacromolecule acting locally in the tissue environment, was chosen for a compelling demonstration of the model's utility. The study tracked the fate of subcutaneously administered hyaluronic acid formulations, revealing localization at the injection site with remarkable preservation of adjacent adipocytes during the 5-day incubation period.

The implications of this research are profound. The ex-vivo animal skin model not only extends the viability of skin explants for a more realistic representation of skin and cell biology but also opens avenues for longitudinal studies into the integration of subcutaneously administered biomacromolecules.

“This study paves the way for further investigations into the behavior and integration of various subcutaneously injected biomacromolecules” says Jimmy Faivre, R&D Manager at Teoxane and last author of this study. “The next phase of this groundbreaking work involves translating the success with animal skin to establish an ex-vivo "full thickness" human skin explant system—a move set to revolutionize the landscape of preclinical evaluation and formulation development.”

In essence, this research heralds a new era in biotherapeutic and aesthetic solutions development, offering a sophisticated and ethical alternative to traditional models, and unlocking the potential for enhanced formulations and treatments. The successful development of this cutting-edge animal skin model aligns seamlessly with our core value of independence, empowering us to conduct in-house studies and propel our research capabilities to new heights. This self-sufficiency underscores our commitment to innovation and excellence in the aesthetic solutions development.