Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of stem cell biology, in particular the linage specific differentiation of pluripotent or multipotent stem cells. Specifically described are methods to direct the lineage specific differentiation of hiPSC to sensitive neurons or neuronal fibers innervating the human skin, such as neural crest stem cells (NCPCs) and here called peripheral sensory neurons (PSNs) using novel culture conditions. It is also described a method for screening a biological agent in vitro. The PSNs obtained using the methods of the present invention are further contemplated for various uses including, but limited to, use in in vitro tests or disease modelling, such as drug discovery assays, cell therapy on a higher scale, detecting a range of skin irritants and other compounds of interest, for studying skin aging mechanism, and for producing a dermocosmetic product.

Abstract: Two synthetic tetrapeptides having a high binding affinity to human muscular nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (HmnAChR) are provided. A composition for inhibiting contraction of muscle cells is also provided. The composition comprises an effective amount of one of these two peptides. Also provided is a method for inhibiting contraction of muscle cells, which method comprises treating muscle cells with an effective amount of the composition. Further provided is a method for inducing proliferation of epidermal cells, which method comprises treating the epidermal cells with an effective amount of the composition. The epidermal cells may be human epidermal keratinocytes (HEKs).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a kit comprising a co-culture microdevice containing peripheral sensory neurons (PSN) and human epidermal keratinocytes (HEK) in a cell culture adapted for both cell types. It is also described a method for screening an active compound using the kit according to the present invention, as well as the use thereof for in vitro dmg tests and for producing a cosmetic product for various dermatological applications, such as atopic dermatitis, sensitive skin, photoaging, wound healing and epidermal thickness in aged skin.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of stem cell biology, in particular the linage specific differentiation of pluripotent or multipotent stem cells. Specifically described are methods to direct the lineage specific differentiation of hiPSC to sensitive neurons or neuronal fibers innervating the human skin, such as neural crest stem cells (NCPCs) and here called peripheral sensory neurons (PSNs) using novel culture conditions. It is also described a method for screening a biological agent in vitro. The PSNs obtained using the methods of the present invention are further contemplated for various uses including, but limited to, use in in vitro tests or disease modelling, such as drug discovery assays, cell therapy on a higher scale, detecting a range of skin irritants and other compounds of interest, for studying skin aging mechanism, and for producing a dermocosmetic product.