Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS
Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS

Tissue Engineering

Our field of innovation focuses on the development and implementation of human in-vitro testing models. We utilize cell-based 2D assays and state-of-the-art 3D tissue models built on scaffolds and hydrogels derived from biomolecular compounds such as collagen and elastin. These models provide a platform for precise preclinical testing of drugs and for determining toxicity and immune responses in cosmetics and chemicals.

These models are used not only in pharmaceutical and cosmetic research but also in personalized medicine.

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A key focus of our work is the development of skin wound models and assays for wound treatment. These innovative models enable us to study wound-healing processes under controlled conditions and develop new therapeutic approaches. By leveraging our specialized 3D in vitro cell culture models, we can efficiently test and optimize the efficacy. This leads to improved clinical outcomes in wound care.

With our expertise in biomolecules and the use of ECM macromolecules to produce hydrogels and scaffolds, we have specialized in developing skin and vascular models. These naturally occurring ECM molecules are highly biocompatible and closely mimic the in vivo environment, resulting in physiologically relevant model systems for advanced research and applications.

3D Skin Models as In-Vitro Testing Systems

We offer metabolically active 3D skin models as in-vitro testing systems, developed using immortalized and primary cells.

In vitro wound skin model

Our standardized skin wound model consists of primary or immortalized human cell lines cultured in a three-dimensional, biomolecule-based matrix. Precise mechanical wounding techniques are used to create reproducible wound conditions, after which the physiological healing processes are studied.

 

ECM-biomolecule-based vascular models

ECM biomolecules are used in the bioprinting of vascular models, with elastin and collagen in particular being employed to replicate the biocompatibility and mechanical properties of the aorta. These two components impart both elasticity and stability to the tissue, thereby creating physiologically realistic conditions for the study of vascular tissue

Biomaterial-based vascular models

Electro-spun gelatin nano-fleece on elastin-based hydrogel for vascular models

 

Tissue engineering combines principles from biology, engineering, and materials science to develop biological tissues. These can be used to replace or regenerate damaged or missing tissues in the body, such as skin, cartilage, or cardiac tissue. This approach also opens new possibilities in wound healing (through the use of bioactive materials), transplantation medicine (reducing dependence on donor organs), and drug development (using artificial tissues for pharmaceutical testing).

At Fraunhofer IMWS, our focus is on advancing cell-based test systems, including the development of innovative methods for determining biological parameters.

 

Cell-Based Test Systems for the Determination of Biological Parameters

To analyze biological parameters of samples and substances, we employ a range of cell-based testing systems, including:

  • Bioactivity, cytotoxicity, and immunogenicity testing
  • Testing the cell adhesion, cell integration, and cell growth properties of materials or material surfaces. Detection of DNA and microbial residues

 

Cytotoxicity Testing of Materials Using In-Vitro Model Systems

We offer three well-established methodological approaches:

  • Conventional cell cultures
  • Reconstructed three-dimensional skin models
  • Vascular models

These approaches enable both qualitative and quantitative assessment of cytotoxicity:

  • Qualitative methods rely on microscopic analysis of morphological changes in cells (e.g., shrinkage, detachment, or membrane damage).
  • Quantitative methods use colorimetric, fluorometric, or luminescence-based assays (e.g., MTT, resazurin assay, XTT, LDH, or ATP assays), typically evaluated using photometric techniques.

Depending on the research question and model complexity (2D vs. 3D), different cell types are used, such as fibroblasts, keratinocytes, or endothelial cells. In 3D skin and vascular models, particular emphasis is placed on achieving physiologically relevant cell architecture and barrier function.

Cytotoxicity testing can be performed using three different methods:

1.      Extract testing (elution method):

The test material is transferred into an extraction medium, which is then applied to the cell or tissue model. This method is particularly suitable for soluble or leachable substances and is compatible with 3D models.

2.      Direct contact:

The test material is applied directly to the cell culture or tissue model. This allows evaluation of mechanical or physical effects but is only suitable to a limited extent for sensitive 3D structures.

3.      Indirect contact (e.g., agar overlay method):

A physical barrier (e.g., an agarose layer) separates the material from the cells while allowing the diffusion of substances. This method is particularly suitable for materials with potentially irritating surface properties.

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