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.