BASF and CTIBiotech to develop first regenerating 3D bioprinted human skin model

A research project involving BASF Care Creations and CTIBiotech has resulted in the development of the first 3D bioprinted human skin model including immune macrophages. The reconstructed tissue models will be the basis for the development and testing of bio-actives for skin care applications.

BASF has been very active in several segments of the 3D printing arena, with a previous bioprinting specific partnership with another French bioprinting company, Poietis. CTIBiotech has developed its own bioprinting technology to produce a 3D printed micro-tumor (used for highly significant pre-clinical trials) and advanced 3D skin models to test active ingredients, cosmetics, and dermatology products on advanced models, adding credibility to substantiate efficiency claims for customers.

Using CTIBiotech’s 3D bioprinting technology will enable BASF’s scientists to increase their 3D bioprinted skin model portfolio. The technology will provide a powerful platform for skincare researchers wishing to study the function of macrophages in a fully reconstructed skin.

Macrophages constantly monitor the skin’s microenvironment for indications of cell stress, tissue injury or infection. They are essential to close wounds and to fully regenerate tissue. To maintain skin homeostasis, macrophages have a high degree of plasticity that promotes or suppress inflammation.

“Compared to current in vitro methods, the 3D immune bioprinted skin developed with CTIBiotech will allow analysis more in line with human physiology and the immune role of macrophages,” said Dr. Sébastien Cadau, 3D tissue engineering specialist at BASF site in Lyon, France. “That’s how this technology is going to help us accelerate the development of innovative and highly reliable ingredients for the skincare market. Our understanding of an immunocompetent 3D skin provides the basis for developing and testing advanced cosmetic bio-actives for skincare applications.”

BASF and CTIBiotech started their cooperation as early as 2011. In 2015, the research partners started working on 3D tissue models for the development and testing of bio-actives for skincare applications. In 2018, they announced first results: The experts demonstrated both the ex vivo production of physiological sebum in long-term culture of a 3D human sebaceous gland model and the regulation of this sebum production by means of active ingredients.

“CTIBiotech and BASF have a long history of collaborations on innovative human skin models to advance human skincare,” said Prof Colin McGuckin, Chief Scientific Officer at CTIBiotech. “CTIBiotech hosts a team of world experts for human tissue engineering with 3D Bioprinting technology that will strengthen the success of this partnership also in the future.”