NETSKINMODELS - A European Initiative Shaping the Future of Skin Model Research

Accurate skin models are essential for studying rare, severe conditions like Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB). These models allow researchers to investigate the disease’s underlying mechanisms and test new treatments in a safe, controlled environment. Decades of dermatological research have led to lab-grown skin models that include key skin cell types such as fibroblasts (providing structure), keratinocytes (forming the outer layer), melanocytes (adding pigment), and immune cells (fighting infection). However, existing models lack the full complexity of human skin, including blood vessels, nerves, sweat glands, and a natural microbiome, all of which play crucial roles in immune surveillance, skin health and healing.

To close these gaps, the NETSKINMODELS research network was established with four years of funding from the European Union. This international collaboration unites nearly 450 researchers and companies from over 38 countries, all focused on developing advanced cell-based skin models that more accurately mimic human skin. These improved models will support detailed research on a variety of skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and severe diseases like EB.

NETSKINMODELS is committed not only to advance skin models for skin diseases but also to support research into skin cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma, which is common in certain EB types. The network’s work also includes exploring wound healing, aging processes, and new drug delivery methods, as well as of innovative wound dressings that might contain tiny particles to enhance and accelerate the healing process.

Researchers from the EB House Austria bring specific expertise on EB, ensuring that model development addresses this disease’s unique needs. Since EB affects multiple layers of the skin, creating 3D models with realistic cell interactions and blood vessel networks is critical. These specialized models enable researchers to examine EB in detail, identify potential treatment targets, and safely test gene therapies and other innovative treatments - moving EB research closer to therapies that could significantly improve patient care.

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