[June 2023 Edition]
The Potential of 4D Tissue Models in the Development of Skin Disease Treatments: A Conversation with Dr. Sebastien Teissier
In this month’s edition, we shine the spotlight on Dr. Sebastien Teissier, Head of Ex Vivo and In Vitro Testing at REVIVO BioSystem. In a Q&A session Dr. Teissier shares his dedication to research in rare skin diseases and explores the possibilities of 4D tissue models.
Would you introduce yourself and your background as a scientist?
I obtained my Ph.D. from the Pasteur Institute, Paris (France), where I focused my research on the complex interactions between Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and keratinocytes.
In 2006, I relocated to Singapore to join the Institute of Medical Biology (IMB, A*STAR, Singapore) where I spent 7 years working on oncogenic viruses and their effect on skin and cervix. Subsequently, my focus transitioned towards project management, specifically overseeing scientific studies conducted in collaboration with industry partners in the skin research field.
In what way is your research background in synergy with your work at REVIVO BioSystems?
At REVIVO BioSystems, what truly excites me about my role is the unique hybrid collaboration between the engineering and biological laboratories. This dynamic daily interaction allows us to develop not only standardized but also innovative solutions, tailored to meet the specific requirements of our clients. By gaining insights into the needs of the industry, together we are able to adapt our cutting-edge technology accordingly and ensure optimal outcomes.
What is your involvement with DEBRA Singapore and what is your interest in rare skin disease treatment?
I have been actively involved with DEBRA Singapore since its inception in 2014. DEBRA (Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Research Association) is a support group for patients living with Congenital Epidermolysis Bullosa. This rare skin condition manifests itself in its most severe forms by affecting various linings of the body, including the skin, mouth and esophagus, and even the eyes.
The establishment of DEBRA Singapore originated from a pressing need to help a patient residing in Singapore (at the time there already existed DEBRA US and DEBRA UK). Additionally, to advance research on the rare skin condition, we saw significant value in fostering a partnership between the patient and Singapore Institute of Medical Biology (IMB).
How about your personal motivation to support rare skin disease research, and what was your latest DEBRA contribution?
My personal motivation has always been centered around helping children in need, particularly those facing serious illnesses, while also acknowledging the financial support required by their families.
Consequently, my involvement with DEBRA has encompassed various activities, from organising and participating in events, such as fund-raising initiatives, to contributing with my graphic design skills in order to promote the organisation’s mission.
More recently, I had the privilege of being invited by DEBRA International to participate in the Global Skin Conference (ELEVATE 2023) held in Brussels. This leading experts event provides a platform to strengthen connections and create opportunities for various associations and industry members to collaborate and network. Scientific updates on therapies & research findings are being exchanged and discussed, with the aim of promoting mutual assistance and support.
What does your work with 4D skin models involve, and what would be their impact on finding effective treatment for rare skin diseases?
At REVIVO BioSystems, we have made significant progress towards the development of a wound healing model that offers a dynamic representation of the healing process. Our current focus is directed towards epidermal healing.
In line with our goals, we continue developing advanced skin models based on our REVskin™, our proprietary 4D full thickness skin model, as well as new 4D tissue models. To address particular diseases, we also plan to incorporate mutations associated with common and rare skin conditions (e.g. Atopic Dermatitis and Epidermolysis Bullosa) into REVskin™. This pioneering research will introduce practical and novel in vitro models and testing methods that pharma and dermatological companies can readily implement for the development of skin disease treatments.
While state-of-the-art animal mutations may recreate such disease models, they come with exorbitant costs and are not suitable for high throughput screening. In contrast, our 4D in vitro models will provide valuable tools for conducting preclinical tests, enhancing accessibility, enabling swift screening processes, and most importantly, offering substantial cost savings.
By revolutionizing the field with this innovative approach, we aim to catalyze research advancements towards identifying treatments of common and rare skin diseases, benefiting patients, researchers, and industry professionals alike.
Join us at 25th World Congress of Dermatology 2023
Dr. Sebastien Teissier will be presenting at the Free Communication session “Translational science” on 5 July, Room 327 from 9:30 to 10:50 AM
He will be sharing his valuable insights on 2 exciting topics:
Topic 1: “REVskin, a skin-on-chip equivalent (SoCE) with advanced blood-flow mimicry, represents a significant improvement in 3D culture models for wound-healing and skin-aging studies”
Topic 2: “Infinite and finite dose permeation of small molecules through biological and synthetic skin simulants using an organ-on-chip platform”
Join us also at our Booth B06 (Hall 4, Suntec Convention), where you can experience a live demo of our next generation 4D skin-on-chip platform technology. Our team will be available to answer any questions you may have. We look forward to meeting you at WCD23!
Upcoming events
3-8 July | Singapore | Booth B06
SCSS 12th Suppliers Day 2023 15 September | Singapore
7-9 November | Bangkok | Booth P38