The skin is a protective and innervated organ that decodes a wide range of tactile, thermal and noxious stimuli. This involves a connection between sensory neurons and epidermis, which is made up of keratinocytes. Among skin pathologies, sensitive skin syndrome (SSS) affects about 50% of the population and is correlated with small-fibers neuropathies resulting in neuropathic pain. To model the SSS, it is important to activate TRPV1, a membrane overactivated in SSS, with its specific agonist capsaicin. A 3D model of reconstructed and innervated epidermis allows to understand the mechanisms of action of SSS and the development of treatment. 

We have developed at NETRI a compartmentalized microfluidic device to co-culture of hiPSC-derived sensory neurons with primary keratinocytes to ensure both fluidic isolation and physical connexion between axons and skin cells and thus to mimic the anatomical structure.