Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of preparing a three-dimensional (3D) cell composition comprising the steps of a) forming a support matrix containing oral fibroblasts suspended within the support matrix by mixing fibrinogen, a modifier and oral fibroblasts with thrombin, b) incubating the support matrix in a cell culture media for a sufficient time to allow development of a first layer of the three-dimensional cell composition, and c) seeding oral keratinocytes on a surface of the first layer and culturing the oral keratinocytes to form a second layer of the three-dimensional cell composition. In specific embodiments of the invention, the method is exemplified for the production of an artificial gingival tissue, wherein polyethylene oxide), 4-arm, succinimidyl glutarate terminated is used as the modifier. Also disclosed are uses of the 3D cell composition which include treatment of a gum disease or condition, regenerative therapy and for in vitro testing.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes a microfluidic chip for culturing and in vitro testing of 3D organotypic cultures. The tests may be performed directly on the organotypic culture in the microfluidic chip. The microfluidic chip includes at least one microfluidic unit which includes two fluidic compartments, such as upper and lower, separated by a permeable supporting structure, one or more access opening for the fluidic compartments, and a set of lids interchangeable with a set of insets. The permeable support structure serves as a support for the organotypic culture. The upper and lower compartments may include inlets and outlets which allow fluids to be perfused into the lower compartment and fluids to be perfused into the upper compartment. The access opening may be closed with a lid or accommodate an inset.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes a microfluidic chip for culturing and in vitro testing of 3D organotypic cultures. The tests may be performed directly on the organotypic culture in the microfluidic chip. The microfluidic chip includes at least one microfluidic unit which includes two fluidic compartments, such as upper and lower, separated by a permeable supporting structure, one or more access opening for the fluidic compartments, and a set of lids interchangeable with a set of insets. The permeable support structure serves as a support for the organotypic culture. The upper and lower compartments may include inlets and outlets which allow fluids to be perfused into the lower compartment and fluids to be perfused into the upper compartment. The access opening may be closed with a lid or accommodate an inset.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method for the differentiation of stem cells to endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts and keratinocytes; their use in the production of a organotypic vascularized skin or mucosa model or composition; a method relating thereto; the use of the model or composition in the testing of pharmaceutical and/or cosmetic agents; and including therapeutic and cosmetic skin compositions developed or tested thereby.