Human Skin Cancer: an Overview Of Animal, Ex Vivo, and In Vitro Models

Abstract

Purpose of ReviewSkin cancer is the most prevalent human cancer and has presented a considerable world incidence rate increase over the last years. While animals offer highly complex systems to study skin cancer biology, ethical concerns and the differences found between the human and animal skin have promoted the development of alternative methods. In this review, we provide an overview of the most important skin cancer models and describe the advantages of in vitro substitutes over ex vivo and animal models. To facilitate understanding, an insight into the biology of skin cancer is also given. Recent FindingsCurrently, the study of cancer pathology and the development of therapeutic agents are mostly based on animal experiments. The methodologies used are based on mice genetic modifications and the induction of carcinogenesis by UV radiation, chemicals, or viruses. Skin explant models represent one alternative to animal models. These preserve the structure and composition of native skin and are therefore highly suitable. More recent studies have developed in vitro skin models composed of the epidermal and/or the dermal layers, which more faithfully mimic the human skin.SummaryVarious technologies have been studied to create improved skin substitutes. To better understand skin cancer biology, models that more faithfully mimic the human skin are needed. In vitro systems can recreate many of the typical features of both healthy and diseased skin and suggest that complex systems like full-thickness models are highly valuable tools to perform human skin studies.