Comprehensive molecular characterization of microneedling therapy in a human three-dimensional skin model

We present for the first time the direct molecular effects of microneedling therapy on epidermal keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts using a standardized 3D skin model. Microneedling treatment resulted in histological alterations and changed the expression of various genes related to epidermal differentiation, inflammation, and dermal remodeling. We speculate that skin microneedling plays a role in dermal remodeling, increases epidermal differentiation, and might also have a direct effect on collagen synthesis. These findings may increase our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of human skin repair induced by microneedling therapy and will allow comparisons with competing applications, such as laser therapies Six samples were analyzed: Comparison between 3D skin models after microneedling treatment (n=3) vs. untreated controls (n=3).