German speciality chemicals supplier BASF has signed a research and development agreement with French firm Poietis,  the first company in the world for 3D laser-assisted bioprinting, to apply the ground-breaking technology to BASF’s proprietary skin equivalent model Mimeskin. The terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The 3D laser-assisted bioprinting technology will be used to create automated reproduction of BASF’s Mimeskin, allowing the company to refine its skin model, the closest equivalent to the original physiological tissue of human skin, by providing precise positioning of the skin cells in three-dimensional structures.

Dr. Sebastien Cadau, responsible for tissue engineering development at BASF, explains: “Compared to other bioprinting methods the laser-assisted technology provides higher resolution when it comes to the patterning of cells. The partnership with Poietis allows BASF to secure its strategic advantage in better understanding the skin mechanisms which support the development and testing of advanced cosmetic bioactives for skin care applications.”

Dr. Fabien Guillemot, Founder and President of Poietis, said of the partnership: “We are extremely pleased about this collaboration. Having long-term expertise in solutions for the dermocosmetics market, BASF understands the benefits of 3D laser-assisted bioprinting compared to conventional cell culture technologies and other bioprinting methods. The partnership also emphasizes bioprinted tissue models as an alternative to animal testing in cosmetics and dermopharmacy.”