In Vitro Psoriasis Model Development Services
At Ace Therapeutics, we recognize the critical need for robust and reliable in vitro models to drive the development of new therapeutic strategies for psoriasis. As a leading preclinical contract research organization (CRO), we have established a comprehensive suite of cell-based assays and in vitro psoriasis model development services that capture the multifaceted nature of this skin disease.
Overview of Psoriasis and In Vitro Modeling Approaches
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by hyperproliferation of keratinocytes, leading to the formation of well-defined, scaly plaques. The disease is driven by a complex interplay of genetic, immunological, and environmental factors, in which immune cells, especially T cells, play a pivotal role in disease pathogenesis. The heterogeneity of psoriasis and its variable response to treatment underscore the need for robust in vitro models that can recapitulate the multifaceted nature of the disease.
In vitro modeling of psoriasis has evolved significantly, moving from simple monolayer cultures to complex three-dimensional (3D) tissue models. These advanced models, such as organotypic cultures and skin-on-a-chip systems, provide a more physiologically relevant environment for studying disease mechanisms and testing therapeutic compounds. They allow the study of cellular interactions, immune responses, and the effects of potential treatments in a controlled environment.
Fig. 1 A schematic overview of the in vitro models that have been applied to recapitulate the immunological functions of the skin and to model inflammatory skin diseases. (Sarama R, et al., 2022)
Custom In Vitro Psoriasis Models
At Ace Therapeutics, we offer a comprehensive suite of in vitro psoriasis model development services to recapitulate the key hallmarks of psoriasis and enable thorough investigation of potential therapeutic targets and candidates. We leverage primary human cells, immortalized cell lines, and co-culture systems to provide physiologically relevant platforms for psoriasis research.
Primary Human Keratinocytes
We utilize primary human keratinocytes, the main cell type affected in psoriasis, to study various aspects of the disease, including:
| Service Options | Methods | Descriptions |
| Measurement of Cell Proliferation | BrdU incorporation, MTT Assay, Alamar Blue Assay | Measuring cell growth and proliferation in response to pro-inflammatory cytokine stimulation. |
| Measurement of Cell Differentiation | Western Blots, Q-PCR, ELISA, etc. | Evaluating the expression of epidermal differentiation markers and tight junction proteins under normal and psoriatic conditions. |
| Measurement of Inflammatory Mediators | Western Blots, ELISA, Flow cytometry, etc. | Quantifying the secretion of key inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in response to cytokine challenges, such as IL-8, GRO-alpha, IL-6, IL-4, IL-22, IL-12, IL-23, and IFN-gamma. |
Co-culture Systems
To better mimic the complex interplay between different cell types in psoriatic skin, Ace Therapeutics has established co-culture systems that combine primary keratinocytes with immune cells, such as T cells, dendritic cells, or neutrophils.
| Service Options | Descriptions |
| Immune Cell-Keratinocyte Interactions | Studying the crosstalk between inflammatory cells and the epidermis, including the impact on keratinocyte proliferation, differentiation, and cytokine production. |
| Epidermal Barrier Function | Evaluating the integrity of the epidermal tight junction proteins and the effects of inflammatory mediators on barrier permeability. |
Immortalized Cell Lines
In addition to primary cells, Ace Therapeutics utilizes well-characterized immortalized keratinocyte cell lines, such as HaCaT and NHK cells, to provide a more standardized and scalable platform for high-throughput screening and mechanistic studies.
- Investigate Signaling Pathways: Dissecting the intracellular signaling cascades involved in the regulation of keratinocyte proliferation, differentiation, and inflammatory responses.
- Test Therapeutic Interventions: Evaluating the effects of on key pathological processes in psoriasis, such as inflammation, hyperproliferation, and epidermal barrier disruption.
Our Advantages in Developing In Vitro Psoriasis Models
As a preclinical CRO, Ace Therapeutics is uniquely positioned to deliver high-quality, reliable in vitro data to support your psoriasis research.
Develop custom 2D monolayer cultures and 3D skin equivalents to model specific aspects of psoriasis.
Perform specialized assays to study inflammation, proliferation, and epidermal differentiation.
Evaluate the efficacy and safety of potential therapeutic candidates using our advanced in vitro models.
Provide expert data analysis and interpretation to help you make informed decisions about your research and development programs.
Ace Therapeutics is dedicated to propelling dermatological research forward with our in vitro psoriasis model development services. For more information on how we can support your research endeavors or to discuss your specific requirements, please feel free to contact us. Our team is eager to work with you and provide the expertise and resources necessary to drive your projects forward.
Reference
- Sarama R, et al. In Vitro Disease Models for Understanding Psoriasis and Atopic Dermatitis. Front Bioeng Biotechnol. 2022;10:803218.