In vitro modelling and investigation of skin ageing and the impact of negative stimuli

With an ageing population and the number of over 65s predicted to be 1 in 6 by 2050 there is a real need for targeted research to enhance the quality of life of this demographic. Ageing skin is attributed to both intrinsic and extrinsic factors which combine and lead to skin with increased fragility and shearing, decreased wound healing response, increased susceptibility to infection, changes in water loss, texture and appearance, all of which have both physiological and emotional impacts on the individual.

Aged skin can have an enhanced negative response to certain stimuli such as occlusion, which can occur as a result of non-breathable clothing, intimate sanitary products and occlusive wound dressings. Occlusion or semi-occlusion of skin is known to have negative impacts on skin barrier function, inducing ‘wet’ skin, increasing pH, and ultimately leading to reduced barrier integrity, as seen by a reduction in the terminal barrier marker filaggrin.

Currently there are limited in vitro models of skin ageing which utilise cells obtained from ageing donors, and which are able to investigate both intrinsic and extrinsic ageing and occlusion. Many available models are not gender specific, which is a further limitation as there are known significant differences between male and female skin which effect their responses to stimuli.

This project will build on existing proof of concept research conducted within the Przyborski research group in collaboration with Procter & Gamble. It will utilise cutting edge technology in the form of aged female human bioengineered skin developed by the group, combined with novel beauty, grooming and skin health applications led by needs of the industry sponsor. Previous research has indicated the feasibility of generating in vitro models using cells obtained from aged donors that demonstrate disparities in skin structure with age.

The student will generate and fully characterise a panel of neonatal, young and aged female skin models, which will be utilised to further knowledge of skin ageing, health and responses to negative and attenuating stimuli. This will form a platform on which to investigate skin ageing and the responses of aged skin to potentially negative stimuli such as occlusion and wounding. As aged skin is expected to already have deficits in some barrier factors and function as a direct result of the ageing process, we seek to understand if there is exaggerated or unique effects on normal epidermal differentiation of aged skin by various occlusive, semi-occlusive and wounding environments. Furthermore, the panel of models will be used to enhance our understanding of the occlusive impact of clothing and intimate female health-care products, and how this varies across the demographics.

The student will receive training in advanced cell culture and the bioengineering of human skin tissue; cell and molecular biological analytical techniques; advanced light microscopic imaging; immunostaining; histology; and gain knowledge and understanding of human skin cell biology. Notably, the student will establish an understanding of epidermal homeostasis, skin barrier integrity, and skin ageing. There will be regular interaction and opportunity to work with the industrial partner, Procter & Gamble.

This project will combine investigations into fundamental biological principles with close interaction with the industrial partner. Through better understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that are involved during the ageing process of skin, this research will provide insight first, into the process of ageing and allow for identification of points where interventions may be of benefit, and second increase knowledge in how aged skin responds to negative stimuli. The study of skin of varying ages will allow for age/gender-specific interventions/alterations to product/treatment design to enhance the consumer experience. This will significantly enhance our knowledge and understanding of female skin health by utilizing novel cutting edge technology. Studies in this area could lead to better understanding of skin-product interactions for targeted product design in ageing women intimate skin. Ultimately investigations will increase knowledge in the aged skin space, and lead to the development of a unique assay system capable of pre-clinical screening of anti-ageing or skin health points of intervention using actives or female-specific skin health products.

How to Apply

To apply for this studentship, applicants should submit their application using the online system: https://studyatdurham.microsoftcrmportals.com/en-US/. Please select PhD in Biological Sciences: Course Code C1A001.

Applications will be processed as they are received until the position is filled.

For informal discussion or further information on the position, interested candidates should contact Professor Stefan Przyborski (stefan.przyborski@durham.ac.uk) before submitting their application.