Microecology in vitro model replicates the human skin microbiome interactions

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.