Key points from article :
Researchers at the University of Queensland (UQ) have achieved a world-first breakthrough by growing fully functioning human skin in the laboratory. The project, led by Dr Abbas Shafiee at UQ’s Frazer Institute in collaboration with Metro North Health, has produced the most life-like skin model to date. Unlike previous laboratory models, this engineered skin includes blood vessels, capillaries, hair follicles, multiple tissue layers, pigmentation, immune cells, and even nerve-like structures—closely mimicking natural human skin.
The team’s success relied on reprogramming human skin cells into stem cells, which were then coaxed into forming miniature versions of skin known as organoids. These organoids were further developed by incorporating tiny blood vessels grown from the same stem cells, allowing the model to form a natural supply system. Over six years, the researchers were able to build skin that behaves like its real-life counterpart, enabling more accurate disease modelling and treatment testing.
Dr Shafiee explained that until now, the study of skin diseases and the development of therapies has been constrained by the lack of realistic lab models. With this new system, scientists will be able to explore conditions such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and scleroderma in much greater detail. The model also has the potential to revolutionise wound healing, regenerative medicine, and precision dermatology.
Professor Kiarash Khosrotehrani emphasised that the innovation could greatly improve the effectiveness of skin grafts, which are currently limited by infection risk and poor integration. By providing a more robust, natural-like replacement, the engineered skin offers new hope for patients with severe wounds, burns, and chronic skin disorders. This breakthrough marks an important step toward more effective treatments and personalised therapies in dermatology.
