Impact of microstructure on cell behavior and tissue mechanics in collagen and dermal decellularized extra-cellular matrices

Skin models are used for many applications such as research and development or grafting. Unfortunately, most lack a proper microenvironment producing poor mechanical properties and inaccurate extra-cellular matrix composition and organization. In this report we focused on mechanical properties, extra-cellular matrix organization and cell interactions in human skin samples reconstructed with pure collagen or dermal decellularized extra-cellular matrices (S-dECM) and compared them to native human skin. We found that Full-thickness S-dECM samples presented stiffness two times higher than collagen gel and similar to ex vivo human skin, and proved for the first time that keratinocytes also impact dermal mechanical properties. This was correlated with larger fibers in S-dECM matrices compared to collagen samples and with a differential expression of F-actin, vinculin and tenascin C between S-dECM and collagen samples. This is clear proof of the microenvironment's impact on cell behaviors and mechanical properties. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: In vitro skin models have been used for a long time for clinical applications or in vitro knowledge and evaluation studies. However, most lack a proper microenvironment producing a poor combination of mechanical properties and appropriate biological outcomes, partly due to inaccurate extra-cellular matrix (ECM) composition and organization. This can lead to limited predictivity and weakness of skin substitutes after grafting. This study shows, for the first time, the importance of a complex and rich microenvironment on cell behaviors, matrix macro- and micro-organization and mechanical properties. The increased composition and organization complexity of dermal skin decellularized extra-cellular matrix populated with differentiated cells produces in vitro skin models closer to native human skin physiology.