Skin Biopsy Transport via Solidifying Liquid Matrix
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for preserving and transporting skin biopsies are inadequate, as they are fragile and not suited for transport by road or air, lacking a robust support system that maintains the 3D structure and physiological integrity of the skin, which is essential for dermatological research and cosmetic/pharmaceutical testing.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the deposition of a skin biopsy on a liquid matrix capable of solidifying, such as blood plasma or fibrinogen solutions, within a porous membrane insert, which solidifies upon temperature change or addition of specific compounds, securely holding the biopsy and allowing it to be transported while maintaining the epidermis in contact with air.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If skin biopsies are placed on porous membrane inserts or stainless steel grids to maintain epidermal contact with air, then the stratum corneum remains in direct contact with atmospheric air, but the biopsies become fragile and cannot be transported by road or air without affecting their integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a solid support matrix as an intermediary between the skin biopsy and the transport environment. This matrix provides mechanical stability and protection during transport while maintaining the physiological interface (porous membrane) for air contact, thus resolving the contradiction between integrity and transportability
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines multiple materials with different properties: a solid support matrix for mechanical strength, a porous membrane for gas exchange, and culture medium for nutrition. This composite structure achieves both structural integrity for transport and physiological functionality for cell survival
2Reliability
If skin biopsies are firmly held by a solid support structure, then their integrity during transport is improved, but the physiological conditions (3D structure and air contact) may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different properties to different parts of the biopsy setup: the base provides solid mechanical support, the porous membrane provides selective permeability for air contact, and the culture medium provides nutritional environment. Each zone serves its specific function to maintain overall physiological integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The use of porous membranes allows simultaneous achievement of mechanical support and gas exchange functionality. The porous structure enables atmospheric air to contact the epidermis while the membrane itself provides structural stability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method allows for the secure transport and culture of skin biopsies, preserving their 3D structure and physiological state, enabling prolonged maintenance without significant degradation, and facilitating the study of cosmetic and pharmaceutical compounds.
Implementation Method 1
a liquid matrix capable of solidifying under the action of an increase or a decrease in temperature and/or by the addition of a compound or composition
Implementation Method 2
an insert whose bottom consists of a porous membrane
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2~3B
AI summary
The present invention concerns an in vitro or ex vivo method for preserving and/or keeping alive skin biopsies from mammals, preferably humans, that can be used for transporting and, if necessary, culturing same. The present invention also comprises a skin biopsy preserved in this way obtained by such a method and the use of same as a model, in particular in a kit for screening or selecting cosmetic or therapeutic compounds.