Skin & Cell Research

Skin and cell research links dermatological model systems with cellular bioenergetics. Typical observations cover matrix remodelling in the dermis, melanogenesis in melanocyte cultures, mitochondrial membrane potentials, redox equilibria and NAD-dependent enzyme activity – studied in fibroblast and keratinocyte cultures, in reconstructed skin models and in preclinical ageing models. The compound groups are chemically heterogeneous: copper complexes such as GHK-Cu and AHK-Cu are used in matrix and fibroblast models, NAD+ and the mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide SS-31 belong to cellular energy metabolism, Methylene Blue serves as a redox dye with a long assay tradition, and Melanotan acts as a melanocortin analogue in pigmentation models. Methodologically, concentration determination takes priority here: copper complexes and dyes have absorption maxima of their own that can overlay photometric measurements, so extinction coefficient, blank value and wavelength selection must be documented cleanly. Every batch is tested in our own laboratory by HPLC and UV/Vis spectroscopy, and the batch-specific certificate of analysis can be viewed before purchase – the COA Guide explains how to read it. For research use only. Not for use in or on the human body.