The first skin atlas has been created, detailing the development of this tissue, cell by cell, before birth. This map represents a significant contribution to the Human Cell Atlas, an international project aimed at mapping every cell in the human body. It also offers valuable insights into regenerative medicine. Thanks to this atlas, it is possible to reconstruct the origin of various skin diseases and lay the foundation for the laboratory creation of hair follicles and tissue flaps useful in transplants for people affected by burns. It also allows us to address the prevention of scarring after wounds or surgery. The study, published in the journal Nature by the University of Newcastle in the UK and the Wellcome Sanger Institute, also provides information on how specific genetic mutations can cause congenital skin disorders, such as blisters or scaly dermatitis.

Muzlifah Haniffa from Newcastle University and the Wellcome Sanger Institute, who led the research with Karl Koehler from Boston Children’s Hospital and Sarah Teichmann from Wellcome Sanger, said: “Our prenatal skin atlas provides the scientific community with accessible tools to study congenital skin diseases and explore opportunities in regenerative medicine.” Haniffa added that they are making significant progress towards the Human Cell Atlas and understanding the biological stages of human development.

The skin is the largest organ in the human body, with a surface area of ​​nearly 2 square meters. It performs vital functions such as protection from the external environment, regulation of body temperature, and the ability to regenerate. Understanding the development process of human skin has historically been difficult because animal models used in studies show significant differences from humans. To address this challenge, researchers used tissue samples taken directly from embryos. These samples were analyzed at the cellular level to obtain information about the arrangement of individual cells.

Additionally, the study authors created a skin organoid using adult stem cells; this is a simplified version of skin tissue with hair follicles that has shown the ability to produce hair. Through analysis of the organoid, it was possible to understand the crucial role of macrophages, a key type of immune cell involved in the formation of blood vessels necessary for the proper functioning of the tissue. This discovery could be particularly useful for researchers working to create experimental models for other organs.

The first skin atlas therefore represents an important step in understanding human skin development and the therapeutic potential offered by regenerative medicine.