Cytotoxicity, proliferation & apoptosis
We use cell lines (HaCat), primary epidermal keratinocytes, dermal fibroblasts, hair follicle keratinocytes (outer root sheath) and skin immune cells, as well as ex vivo organ culture of human hair follicles and human full thickness skin to investigate whether compounds/formulations (also via topical application) inhibit cell proliferation, induce cytotoxicity, or protect from experimentally-induced cytotoxicity. Specifically, as standardized readout parameters, we evaluate the following by colorimetric assays, and immunohistology/quantitative (immuno-)histomorphometry (for details on our techniques, please click here.
- Cell viability (MTT assay, lactate dehydrogenase assay)
- Cell proliferation and apoptosis (using different markers detecting different stages of cell cycles and apoptosis)
- Cell necroptosis (programmed inflammatory cell death)
- Formation of melanin clumping (hair follicle only)
- DNA damage (H2A.X, 8-OH-dG)
- RNA synthesis
In addition, using RNAseq, qRT-PCR, and/or in situ hybridization, we can analyze the expression of molecules involved in cell and hair follicle cytotoxicity, and assess these within specific compartments from skin or hair tissue sections following laser capture microdissection.
Additional readout parameters are available, and customized experiments can be designed to meet the needs of our customers.

Learn more
Our methodological approach for “Investigating effects on skin and hair cytotoxicity” download here
Selected publications
Haslam et al., 2020, Luengas et al., 2020, Chéret et al., 2020, Purba et al., 2020, Alam et al., 2020, Smart et al., 2020, Bertolini et al., 2020, Gherardini et al., 2019, Lisztes et al., 2020, Alam et al., 2019, Alam et al., 2019, Chéret et al., 2018, Purba et al., 2017, Purba et al., 2016, Lu et al., 2009, Bodo et al., 2007
We also collaborate with various pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries in research projects that aim to identify novel targets and products for skin and hair follicle care and disorders.
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