Ageing Biomarkers and their role in the development of an aged skin model in vitro

Ageing describes the decreased functionality and inability to resist physiological stress exhibited by all tissues as they get older. The skin is no exception to this rule; experiencing both intrinsic and extrinsic ageing which results in the remodelling of the entire tissue through degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. In recent years, advancements in 2D cell culture and 3D bioengineered skin models have begun to help us better understand the workings of human skin. However, there is a need for the development of an ‘aged’ skin model, which would offer an innovative opportunity to further explore the ageing process, in a realistic, reproducible and readily available format. A key aspect of any ageing model, is that it must exhibit changes in biomarkers that have been linked to in vivo skin ageing. With this in mind, this project aims to identify key biomarkers of ageing through analysis of both mRNA and protein levels; specifically focusing on the dermal compartment.