Model of human epidermis reconstructed in vitro with keratinocytes and melanocytes on dead de-epidermized human dermis.

Context: Recent progress in the field of epithelial culture techniques has allowed the development of culture systems in which the reconstructed epidermis presents characteristics of morphological differentiation similar to those seen in vivo. Human epidermis reconstructed in vitro may be used as the best alternative for the in vitro testing of the toxicology and efficiency of products for topical use, as well as in the treatment of skin burns and chronic skin ulcers.

Objective: To demonstrate a method for obtaining human epidermis reconstructed in vitro, using keratinocytes and melanocytes cultivated on dead de-epidermized human dermis.

Melanocyte transplantation for the treatment of vitiligo: effects of different surgical techniques.

This paper presents the results of a pilot clinical trial study, conducted on 11 patients with stable vitiligo at the vitiligo outpatient clinic of The Unicamp University Hospital, between March 2000 and December 2001. This study was in accordance with the ethical standards of the Institutional Review Board. The patients were concomitantly treated with four different types of surgical techniques in 44 areas randomly chosen.