Specialty chemical company BASF and Poietis, a 3D laser-assisted bioprinting company, have signed a cosmetics R&D agreement, with the view to apply Poitetis' technology to improve BASF's skin equivalent model Mimeskin.
Poietis' 3D laser-assisted bioprinting technology, which prompts the reproduction of organic tissues, allows for precise positioning of skin cells in 3D structures. Through this, cells can be cultivated within BASF’s skin model Mimeskin, which is the closest equivalent to the original physiological tissue of human skin. The technology will be primarily used to allow for automated reproduction of Mimeskin, followed by more advanced models containing additional cell types.
Dr Fabien Guillemot, Founder and President of Poietis, said: “We are extremely pleased about this collaboration. Having long-term expertise in solutions for the dermo-cosmetics market, BASF understands the benefits of 3D laser-assisted bioprinting compared with conventional cell culture technologies and other bioprinting methods. The partnership also emphasises bioprinted tissue models as an alternative to animal testing in cosmetics and dermopharmacy.”
Dr Sebastien Cadau, responsible for tissue engineering development at BASF, added: “Compared with other bioprinting methods the laser-assisted technology provides higher resolution when it comes to the patterning of cells. The partnership with Poietis allows BASF to secure its strategic advantage in better understanding the skin mechanisms which support the development and testing of advanced cosmetic bioactives for skin care applications.”
