In Vitro Tests

 MelanoDerm

MatTek's MelanoDerm tissue model is a human skin tissue equivalent composed of keratinocytes and melanocytes.  This model can be used to assess the effect of topically applied formulations on melanin accumulation within the tissue.  Typical studies usually involve 10-14 days of treatment. Pigmentation studies can also be conducted using keratinocyte/melanocyte cocultures.  In addition to assaying for changes in tissue melanin content, changes in pigmentation can also be assessed via histology using Fontana Masson staining.

 

High magnification image showing the individual melanocytes in a MelanoDerm tissue that was topically treated with 1% kojic acid for 10 days.		High magnification image showing the individual melanocytes in a MelanoDerm tissue that was topically treated with PBS for 10 days.

Fontana Masson staining of a MelanoDerm tissue treated with 1% Kojic Acid.  Counterstain is nuclear fast red.		Fontana Masson staining of an untreated MelanoDerm tissue.