Co-culture of cells in PDMS microsystem for sensitized artificial skin

In this work a PDMS microsystem was conceived and fabricated for the development and study of an artificial skin-equivalent that includes nerve endings. A cellular co-culture of keratinocytes, dorsal root ganglia neurons and spinal cord cells in micro wells was developed. Microstructures were included in the microsystems, allowing infiltration of neuronal extensions to the skin-equivalent compartment. Electrophysiological measurements were conducted to measure electrical responses of the neurons in response to external stimulation of the skin.