We develop 3D skin microbiome and infection models with an integrated immune system that can be used to study host-pathogen/microbiome interactions.
We use our reconstituted epidermis and full-thickness skin models made from specifically immortalized primary or primary cells as well as models supplemented with immune cells. The developed horny layer (stratum corneum) of the models is colonized with specific skin microbiome or pathogenic microorganisms according to the desired application.
Skin microbiome models
are reconstructed models whose stratum corneum is colonized with commensal skin microbiome strains such as Staphylococcus ssp, e.g. S. epidermidis, or Micrococcus luteus [1, 2, 3].
Skin infection models
are reconstructed models whose stratum corneum is infected with pathogenic, opportunistic microorganisms such as Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella ssp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Cutibacterium acnes, Herpes simplex virus 1, Candida albicans or Malassezia furfur, which can cause dermatological infections [4, 5].