3D Organotypic Skin Models Recapitulate Autoantibody-Driven Pemphigus Pathomechanisms and Targeted Therapeutic Response

The study presents a novel 3D organotypic skin model that mimics the progression of pemphigus vulgaris, an autoimmune blistering disorder. By using a combination of 3D bioprinting and cell self-organization, researchers created a skin construct with a stratified epidermis and a vascularized dermis. This model successfully replicates the disruption of the epidermal barrier caused by pathogenic antibodies and allows for the study of disease phenotypes and therapeutic responses. The model was used to evaluate epidermal growth factor receptor-targeted inhibitors, demonstrating its potential as a testbed for investigating autoimmune pathogenesis and screening targeted therapies.