Microecology in vitro model replicates the human skin microbiome interactions
Pan Wang, Huijuan Li, Xingjiang Zhang, Xiaoxun Wang, Wenwen Sun, Xiaoya Zhang, Baiyi Chi, Young Wook Go, Xi Hui Felicia Chan, Jianxin Wu, Qing Huang
Abstract
Skin microecology involves a dynamic equilibrium among the host, microbiome, and internal/external environments. This equilibrium, shaped by multifactorial interactions, reflects individual specificity and diversity. Creating a replicable in vitro skin microecological model is highly challenging. Here, we introduce a mimicked stratum corneum microecology model (SCmic). It uses light cured crosslinked hydrogels as a scaffold and moisture source, and nonviable epidermal cells as the main nutrient. This setup establishes a suitable, stable, and reproducible microecology for microbiome colonization. Notably, it replicates the normal/oily skin microbiota with no significant differences from the original native microbiota at the genus level. Simultaneously, we have developed a standardized human skin microbiota model (Hcm), featuring seven dominant strains that form a representative microbial community. The models provide highly convenient approaches for exploring the intricate mutual interactions among skin microecology, influence of microbiota on skin health, and metabolism of chemical substances by microbiota. Effective models are needed to reduce animal testing. Here, the authors report on an in vitro skin microecology model using a hydrogel-based scaffold that supports stable microbiota growth, resembling natural skin communities, allowing the study of microbiome interactions, skin health, and metabolism.