3D Reconstructed Human Vaginal Epithelium

Throughout a woman's life, the vaginal epithelium is subject to strong physiological variations which, combined with the use of external chemical molecules, can lead to intimate discomforts such as irritation, dryness and dysbiosis. The safety of these external agents, whether hygiene or skincare products, must therefore be demonstrated, in addition to objectification of their biological efficacy. Traditionally, these safety and efficacy tests were carried out on ex vivo rodent vaginal explants. Today, for obvious animal ethical reasons, these tests are more commonly performed on human vaginal cells in monolayer cell culture. However, these 2D models miss the differentiation and barrier properties of a living organ. Only 3D organoid reconstructions can approach the structure and functionality of living vaginal tissue. As a provider of in vitro dermo-cosmetic testing, StratiCELL achieved the reconstruction of 3D Human Vaginal Epithelium (HVE) from isolated vulvar epithelial cells. Cultured under controlled conditions on microporous supports and at the air/liquid interface, the team succeeded in reconstructing 3D tissue histologically similar to natural vaginal tissue.