3D human sebaceous glands technology for skin care applications
New 3D technology provides a powerful platform for skin care researchers wishing to study the function of sebaceous glands, in relation to a range of age-related, microbial and inflammatory skin disorders.
At NYSCC Cosmetic Congress, BASF Care Creations and the Cell Therapy Research Institute CTIBiotech presented the initial results of their joint research on 3D tissue models for the development and testing of bio-actives for skin care applications: After 2 years of research, the experts have now demonstrated both the ex vivo production of physiological sebum in a long-term culture of a 3D human sebaceous gland model, and the regulation of this sebum production by means of active ingredients.
Using CTIBiotech’s 3D human sebaceous gland technology, scientists were able to improve BASF’s 3D skin model portfolio. The new 3D technology provides a powerful platform for skin care researchers wishing to study the function of sebaceous glands, in relation to a range of age-related, microbial and inflammatory skin disorders.
“Working with BASF allowed us to validate a powerful technology for human skin care research in very little time,” said Dr. Nico Forraz, Chief Executive Officer at CTIBiotech. “This positions CTIBiotech as a world leader in innovative and even disruptive technologies for human cell-based bioassays, applied to dermo-cosmetics.”
“Compared to current in vitro methods, the 3D models developed by CTIBiotech allow analysis more in touch with human physiology and sebaceous gland metabolism,” said BASF’s project lead Dr Sabine Pain. “That’s how their technology helps us accelerate the development of innovative and highly reliable ingredients for the skin care market. Our understanding of sebaceous gland metabolism provides the basis for developing and testing advanced cosmetic bio-actives for skin care applications, and in particular skincare products for oily skin.”
“Because of their experience and expertise in developing solutions for the dermo-cosmetics market, BASF understands the benefits of collaborating with tissue engineering experts,” added Professor Colin McGuckin, Chief Scientific Officer and President of CTIBiotech. “The next evolution of the sebaceous gland model will be based on a 3D bio-printing technology that allows us to fully reproduce micro-glands into a full thickness skin model, in vitro.”
Related News
-
News A Day in the Life of a CPHI Attendee
The series aims to highlight some of the indispensable talent involved in all aspects of the pharma value chain, getting to know the people working towards better healthcare across the world. This special edition aims to get to know the people attendin... -
News CPHI Pharma Awards 2026: Recognising Excellence in an Evolving Industry
Submissions now open — deadline May 16
-
News Packaging Under Pressure: Where Sustainability in Pharma Meets Reality
A Reflection on the Sustainability Collective Roundtable Session at Pharmapack 2026
-
News Where Pharma Innovation Takes the Spotlight: Pharmapack Awards 2026
The 2026 Pharmapack Awards, held January 21, 2026, celebrated and recognised leading companies in the pharmaceutical packaging sector paving the way for packaging and drug delivery excellence in the future.
-
News Pharmapack 2026 - From the Floor
Celebrating its 25th anniversary in the city where it all started, Pharmapack 2026 is back in Paris! From January 21-22, 2026, Paris Expo Porte de Versailles opens its doors again to the pharmaceutical packaging and drug delivery sectors, ready for 2 d... -
News Reshaping Pharmaceutical Packaging’s Sustainable Future at Pharmapack 2026
Pharmapack 2026 returns as the pharmaceutical packaging industry's premier gathering, bringing together global leaders, innovators, and decision-makers for an unparalleled showcase of cutting-edge solutions and strategic insights.
-
News CPHI Frankfurt 2025 – From the Floor
In a full-circle moment, our From the Floor blog returns to Frankfurt for the 2025 edition of CPHI Frankfurt. Taking place over 3 days from 28–30 October, we're excited to be back in a city of global innovation to meet, collaborate, and grow ... -
News Pharma in Focus: Key Findings from the CPHI community
Explore what the CPHI community has to say about the top trends emerging from the pharmaceutical industry and supply chain with our annual Strategic Insights infographic.